The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a stark warning on Monday regarding the detrimental effects of cuts to international aid and insufficient funding on the global health system. As pandemics, drug-resistant infections, and vulnerable health services become increasingly concerning, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed the issue during a session of the WHO Executive Board in Geneva.
Tedros emphasized that last year’s workforce reductions were largely due to significant funding cuts, resulting in serious repercussions across health systems. He described 2025 as possibly one of the toughest years in the agency’s history, noting that abrupt cuts to bilateral aid have caused substantial disruptions in many nations’ health services. Despite maintaining vital operations, he pointed out that these funding issues have exposed the fragility of global health systems, particularly in low and middle-income countries that struggle to deliver essential services.
The funding challenges faced by WHO illustrate a broader trend away from international health financing, compelling countries to make tough decisions. In light of these cuts, the organization is working with many nations to preserve essential health services and transition towards self-reliance through domestic resource mobilization, including health taxes on products like tobacco and sugary drinks.
Despite these efforts, the unmet health needs remain staggering. WHO estimates that 4.6 billion people lack access to essential health services, while 2.1 billion endure financial burdens due to health expenses. The global health workforce is also projected to face a shortfall of 11 million workers by 2030, with a significant number being nurses.
Tedros acknowledged that WHO has only managed to avoid a more severe financial crisis due to an increase in assessed contributions from Member States, which has allowed the agency to decrease its reliance on voluntary funding. Through these reforms, WHO has secured roughly 85 percent of the resources necessary for its core budget for 2026-27. However, he cautioned that the remaining funding gap will be challenging to bridge, particularly given the tough landscape for global financing.
Despite these financial pressures, there have been some notable advancements. Last year, the WHO adopted the Pandemic Agreement and amended International Health Regulations, both designed to bolster global preparedness following COVID-19. Additionally, the organization has enhanced disease surveillance capabilities, implemented AI-powered epidemic intelligence systems, and assisted countries in effectively managing numerous health emergencies in 2025.
While one in six bacterial infections worldwide is now resistant to antibiotics, an alarming trend that is intensifying in various regions, Tedros reiterated the importance of solidarity in addressing global health threats. He reminded the assembly that without adequate and predictable financing, the world might be less equipped for future health crises. In a poignant conclusion, he asserted, “This is your WHO. Its strength is your unity. Its future is your choice.”