WHO Receives $700 Million Pledges for 2025-2028 Budget

October 15, 2024

During an event in Berlin, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced it has received $700 million in new funding pledges for its 2025-2028 budget. This is in addition to the $300 million already promised by both the European Union and the African Union.

Why is this Funding Important?

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus explained that these investments are crucial because strong health systems support not only public health but also the overall stability of societies and economies. The COVID-19 pandemic showed that health problems can affect much more than just healthcare systems, they can disrupt economies and everyday life around the world.

Who are the Major Donors?

Germany has pledged at least 360 million euros (about $392 million), making it one of the largest donors, along with the United States. The WHO is hoping that more countries will step up and help spread the responsibility for funding its work more fairly.

Changes to the WHO’s Funding Model

In the past, WHO relied too much on a small number of big donors. Two years ago, the organization agreed to change its funding model to fix this issue. By the 2030-2031 budget cycle, WHO aims to have 50% of its budget come from mandatory fees paid by its member countries. Right now, only 16% comes from these obligatory fees, and the rest comes from donations.

Calls for More Support

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stressed that more countries need to get involved in supporting WHO. He said that even small contributions matter and help ensure the long-term success of global health programs.

About the World Health Organization

The WHO was founded in 1948 in Geneva and has 194 member countries, making it one of the largest international organizations. Its emblem features the rod of Asclepius, which symbolizes healing. The WHO leads global efforts in health and responds to health crises. Some of its major initiatives include launching the Global Vaccine Action Plan in 2013 and creating the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, a key treaty to reduce tobacco use. The WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, 2020 and also focuses on mental health and nutrition around the world.

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