The World Health Organization (WHO) is implementing significant budgetary reductions and operational changes following the United States’ decision to withdraw its membership and funding. An internal memo from WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus outlines immediate measures to address the financial shortfall.
Effective immediately, the WHO will freeze all but the most critical staff recruitment and substantially reduce travel expenditures. All meetings will transition to virtual formats unless exceptional approval is granted, and support missions to member states will be limited. Additionally, ongoing renovations have been suspended, and equipment procurement is being curtailed. These steps aim to mitigate the financial challenges precipitated by the U.S. withdrawal.
The U.S. has been the WHO’s largest financial contributor, providing approximately 14% of its total funding for the 2024-2025 period. This includes $261 million in mandatory contributions and additional voluntary funds earmarked for specific programs. The absence of these resources has prompted the WHO to propose a 21% budget reduction for the 2026-2027 period, decreasing from $5.3 billion to $4.2 billion.
The funding gap is expected to impact various health initiatives, particularly those aimed at improving access to essential health services, responding to health emergencies, and eradicating diseases such as polio. The WHO is actively seeking additional funding from member states, private donors, and philanthropic organizations to mitigate these effects. Final decisions regarding the prioritization of work and resources are anticipated by the end of April.
Director-General Tedros expressed regret over the U.S. decision and emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting and protecting its workforce during this challenging period. He acknowledged the uncertainty created by the withdrawal and called for solidarity, flexibility, and creativity in navigating the financial constraints.
The U.S. withdrawal, initiated by President Donald Trump, cited criticisms of the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over its relationship with China. This move has sparked widespread concern among public health experts, who warn that it could undermine global health initiatives and weaken responses to health crises worldwide.
