In a significant display of international cooperation and commitment to global health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has secured pledges totaling approximately $1.7 billion to fund its Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW 14) for the period of 2025-2028. This funding will enable WHO to implement critical health initiatives aimed at saving 40 million lives worldwide.
Key Highlights of the Pledges
The pledges were made during a high-level event at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 20, 2025. Notable contributors include :
- European Union:
- $270 million (approximately €250 million)
- Switzerland:
- $80 million (CHF 66 million)
- Novo Nordisk Foundation:
- $57 million (DKK 380 million)
- Singapore:
- $18 million (SGD 24 million)
- Ireland:
- Bringing forward its assessed contribution to 2028-2029 levels by committing additional flexible funds
Impact of the Funding
The GPW 14 outlines WHO’s strategic direction for 2025-2028, focusing on key areas such as ² ³:
- Health Emergencies:
- Responding to and preventing health crises
- Infectious Diseases: Controlling outbreaks and improving vaccination coverage
- Non-Communicable Diseases:
- Addressing the growing burden of diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer
- Maternal and Child Health:
- Improving health outcomes for mothers and children
- Climate Change: Mitigating the impact of climate change on global health
WHO’s Vision
The WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhan Adhanom Ghebreyesh, expressed gratitude to the donors and emphasized the importance of sustainable financing for the organization’s success. The funding will support WHO’s efforts to :
- Provide access to health services for over 150 million people in humanitarian settings
- Support 55 countries in educating and employing 3.2 million health workers
- Increase vaccination coverage in priority countries
- Strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes
The GPW 14 is designed to promote, provide, and protect the health and well-being of all people, everywhere. With the secured funding, WHO is poised to make a significant impact on global health outcomes and achieve its ambitious goals.
