By Jennifer Rigby and Mariam Sunny
According to World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the United States’ decision to halt foreign aid contributions is significantly impacting global health efforts. This pause in aid is affecting crucial programs aimed at combating diseases such as polio, HIV, and other health threats. Tedros emphasized the importance of the U.S. reconsidering its stance and resuming aid funding to prevent further setbacks.
Speaking at a virtual press conference from Geneva, Tedros expressed his concerns about the adverse effects of the actions taken by the U.S. government on global health initiatives. Various programs targeting HIV, polio, smallpox, and avian flu have been disrupted due to the foreign aid pause initiated by President Trump shortly after assuming office. Tedros highlighted the immediate cessation of HIV treatment, testing, and prevention services in the 50 countries supported by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) as a direct consequence of the funding suspension.
Despite some services being allowed to resume following a waiver, Tedros noted that prevention efforts for vulnerable populations were still not being adequately addressed. The suspension of funding has led to the closure of clinics and the temporary dismissal of health workers, creating gaps in the provision of essential services. The WHO is working to assist countries in mitigating the shortage of anti-retroviral drugs caused by the funding cut.
In addition to the impact on HIV and other diseases, the halt in funding and disengagement of U.S. institutions are hindering global efforts to eradicate polio and respond to outbreaks like smallpox. Tedros cited a specific case in Myanmar where nearly 60,000 individuals were left without access to life-saving services due to the funding pause. He urged the U.S. to reconsider its decision and continue funding these critical health programs until sustainable solutions can be identified.
Aside from the aid freeze, President Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the WHO further complicates international collaboration on health emergencies, particularly regarding disease outbreaks and influenza. Tedros pointed out the lack of information from the U.S. on avian influenza cases among dairy cattle and human infections, highlighting the challenges faced in monitoring and responding to such outbreaks without the full cooperation of U.S. health agencies.
Maria Van Kerkhove, interim director for pandemics and epidemics, expressed concerns about the lack of influenza reports from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, indicating a breakdown in communication since January. The WHO continues to seek engagement with U.S. authorities to ensure timely information sharing and coordination in combating health threats.
Tedros also addressed the funding shortfall faced by the WHO itself, discussing potential strategies to secure financial sustainability for the organization. He mentioned proposals such as establishing a $50 billion endowment fund and exploring options like cash recovery or service fees for entities capable of contributing financially. The WHO is actively pursuing avenues to enhance
