The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms over a growing global health crisis, revealing that at least 70 countries are experiencing significant disruptions in medical care due to substantial funding cuts. This development threatens to reverse decades of progress in global health initiatives.
Key Highlights
- Widespread Impact: Millions are missing out on essential treatments as health facilities shut down, healthcare workers lose their jobs, and patients face increased out-of-pocket expenses.
- Budget Shortfall: The WHO is grappling with a $600 million deficit in its annual budget, anticipating a 21% reduction over the next two years, bringing the biennial budget down to $4.2 billion.
- U.S. Withdrawal: The United States, previously the WHO’s largest financial contributor, is preparing to exit the organization, exacerbating the funding crisis.
- China’s Role: In the wake of the U.S. departure, China is poised to become the largest provider of state fees to the WHO.(Reuters)
Statements from WHO Leadership
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed the World Health Assembly, stating:(Reuters)
“Patients are missing out on treatments, health facilities have closed, health workers have lost their jobs, and people face increased out-of-pocket health spending.”
He emphasized the need for countries to re-evaluate their spending priorities:
“Countries spend vast sums protecting themselves against attacks from other countries, but relatively little on protecting themselves from an invisible enemy that can cause far more damage.”(Reuters)
The Path Forward
As hundreds of WHO officials, donors, and diplomats convene in Geneva to address crises ranging from mpox to cholera, the organization is urging member states to increase their investment in global health. The WHO’s revised budget aims to focus resources on essential services and emergency responses.(Reuters, Reuters)
Source: Reuters – People in 70 countries are missing out on medical care amid funding cuts, says WHO
