WHO Raises Alarm Over Growing Health Crises as Funds Dwindle
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep concern over worsening health emergencies worldwide. Millions of people remain at risk due to funding shortages, ongoing conflicts, and a growing demand for humanitarian aid.
US Funding Cuts Impact Global Health
During a press briefing, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Hanan Balkhy, highlighted the challenges caused by the United States’ recent decision to stop financial contributions to the organization. She described this move as a major setback, given the agency’s dependence on US funding for critical health programs.
Balkhy explained that the funding cut has already disrupted emergency response efforts. In January, shortly after taking office, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw from WHO, citing concerns over political influence within the agency.
The Need for Diverse Funding Sources
The US has long been WHO’s biggest donor, contributing 18% of its 2024/25 budget. It has also provided additional support for programs like polio eradication and disease surveillance in conflict zones. However, Balkhy warned that relying too much on one donor is unsustainable.
She stressed the need for a broader funding base, urging other nations—especially those in the Eastern Mediterranean—to step up their contributions. This, she said, would help protect vulnerable populations and strengthen global health security.
Escalating Health Crises Worldwide
One of the most urgent concerns is the situation in Gaza, where recent airstrikes have reportedly killed hundreds. Balkhy called for an immediate ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid, and the restoration of essential services.
Beyond Gaza, other conflict zones continue to overwhelm health resources. WHO is currently managing 16 graded emergencies, including seven complex humanitarian crises and over 50 disease outbreaks. Six of these have reached the highest crisis level.
In Sudan, 20 million people need urgent health care, and by June, 25 million will face extreme food insecurity. However, the health response is only 5.6% funded. In Syria, 65% of the population requires emergency medical assistance, but WHO faces an 80% funding shortfall. With 70% of Syria’s health workforce having left the country, fewer than half of its hospitals are still operational.
Balkhy also warned that funding shortages in Afghanistan could lead to the closure of 80% of WHO-supported healthcare services by mid-year. In Yemen, cholera outbreaks remain a major threat, while Sudan struggles with malnutrition and limited trauma care. Without urgent financial support, WHO’s ability to respond effectively will be severely impacted.
What Comes Next?
WHO Member States have tentatively agreed to a 20% increase in assessed contributions for the 2026–27 budget. However, final approval will come at the World Health Assembly in May. Balkhy emphasized that sustainable and diversified funding is essential to ensuring that WHO can continue its life-saving work.
She urged nations to prioritize health funding, noting that some emerging donors in the humanitarian space have an opportunity to make a significant impact. “The time to act is now,” she said.
