WHO's Adaptive Strategy Amid the U.S. Funding Withdrawal

The World Health Organization is prioritizing resources and setting a one-year limit on staff contracts to ensure financial sustainability after the U.S. funding withdrawal. WHO's key focus is retaining its global impact by redirecting resources to urgent priorities and securing funds from other sources.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is taking decisive action to sustain itself following the U.S. withdrawal of funding in January. An internal memo has revealed steps such as setting one-year limits on staff contracts to ensure the agency's survival.

Historically, the United States has been a significant contributor, providing 18% of WHO's overall funding. The agency is now focused on prioritizing resources to maintain global health impacts while navigating financial challenges.

Efforts are underway to secure additional funding from various sources, with a strategic shift moving resources from Geneva headquarters to field operations in recipient countries. WHO remains committed to addressing global health priorities amid financial constraints.

(With inputs from agencies.)