Geneva – Critical Global Health Services are facing widespread disruption due to sudden cuts in international aid, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns. Billions in reduced Official Development Assistance (ODA) are putting immense pressure on already fragile health systems worldwide.
A stark picture emerges from a recent WHO survey covering 108 countries. The results show 70% of WHO country offices report severe fallout from reduced foreign aid. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, called the findings “a worrying picture of the consequences of sudden and unplanned aid cuts on the health of millions.” While these cuts might push nations toward self-funding, Dr. Tedros stressed that support is vital now to prevent devastating health outcomes.
Key Health Functions Under Threat
The impact of ODA reductions spreads across essential operations. The survey highlights major disruptions affecting vital Global Health Services:
- Emergency Preparedness: 70% of countries report setbacks in readiness for health crises.
- Disease Surveillance: Public health monitoring is weakened in 66% of nations.
- Basic Healthcare: Service provision faces challenges in 58% of countries.
- Humanitarian Aid: Health support during crises is affected in 56%.
- Health Workers: 54% report job losses and training disruptions for medical staff.
These cuts directly harm people’s access to care. The WHO emphasizes the need for new funding approaches, technical support, and strengthening local capabilities. Dr. Ghebreyesus assured that the WHO will closely monitor the situation and work with partners to manage the immediate crisis and build long-term resilience. Alarmingly, up to 24% of surveyed countries already see citizens paying more out-of-pocket for healthcare¹, hitting the poorest and most vulnerable the hardest.
