The World Health Organization (WHO) is facing a significant challenge following the decision by the United States to withdraw from the agency. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called on global leaders to intervene and persuade the U.S. to reverse its withdrawal, emphasizing the critical information the U.S. will miss out on regarding global disease outbreaks.
At a recent budget meeting, concerns were raised about how WHO would manage without its largest donor. The U.S. contributes an estimated $988 million, representing 14% of WHO's $6.9 billion budget for 2024-2025. The organization heavily relies on American funding for its health emergencies program, with readiness functions in various regions at risk due to potential funding shortages.
