Mon May 19 02:30:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: WHO Faces Funding Crisis as US Departure Looms, China Steps Up**
**Geneva, Switzerland (May 19, 2025)** – The World Health Organisation (WHO) is grappling with a significant funding shortfall as it prepares for the United States’ withdrawal, slated for January 2026. Hundreds of officials, donors, and diplomats are convening in Geneva this week for the annual assembly, where the central discussion revolves around how to sustain critical global health initiatives amid a projected $600 million budget cut this year and a 21% reduction over the next two years.
The US, historically contributing approximately 18% of the WHO’s funding, initiated its departure process earlier this year following President Trump’s accusations of the agency’s mishandling of COVID-19. While Trump has hinted at a possible reconsideration if the WHO undergoes reform, little concrete action has been observed.
In the wake of the US departure, China is poised to become the largest state contributor, increasing its share from just over 15% to 20% under a 2022 funding system overhaul. “We have to adapt ourselves to multilateral organisations without the Americans. Life goes on,” stated China’s ambassador to Geneva, Chen Xu.
The WHO is actively strategizing to prioritize “high-value” activities, including guideline development for vaccines and treatments, outbreak response, and medicine approval processes. Potential cost-saving measures include closing offices in wealthier countries and scaling back training programs.
Some experts suggest a broader re-evaluation of the WHO’s structure and operations is needed. Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, an independent fundraising body, questioned the necessity of numerous committees and extensive publications.
The agency is also focusing on securing targeted funding from donors, pharmaceutical companies, and philanthropic groups to protect essential programs. The ELMA Foundation, for example, recently provided $2 million to the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network (Gremlin).
Other key agenda items at the assembly include finalizing a pandemic preparedness agreement and seeking additional donor contributions. However, the looming financial crisis and the search for a sustainable future without US funding remain the dominant concerns.
Published: May 19, 2025
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