Daily Update: 78th World Health Assembly – May 22, 2025

Health Progress Despite Financial Challenges

Recent Developments in Health Financing

During Thursday’s Committee B meeting, significant discussions centered around the Results Report 2024, which reviewed the financing and implementation of the Programme budget for 2024–2025. Member States expressed appreciation for the transparency and detail contained within the report but raised concerns about insufficient progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). There were calls for more equitable funding across the World Health Organization (WHO). Consensus saw the committee approving decisions 78/17 Add.1 and 78/17 Add.2, setting the stage for future initiatives.

The WHO Investment Round

Delegates received the WHO’s Investment Round (IR) with optimism. This initiative aims to fund the Fourteenth General Programme of Work from 2025 to 2028. Should it reach its funding goals, the IR could potentially save 40 million lives over the next four years. By April 2025, pledges summing up to US$1.7 billion were secured, with an additional US$210 million committed during the Health Assembly, hinting at further funding opportunities. Notably, 62 pledges were made from Member States, with 35 of them being new contributors to the WHO. These pledges are more than just financial; they symbolize a global commitment to sustainable health financing in an era of unprecedented challenges.

Addressing Health Emergency Preparedness

On May 21–22, 2025, discussions focused on WHO’s efforts in health emergencies. Throughout the previous year, WHO responded to 51 graded emergencies across 89 nations, covering global outbreaks and numerous humanitarian crises. Collaborating with over 900 partners across health clusters, WHO aimed to support 72 million people in need. Alarmingly, nearly 60% of new emergencies were traced back to climate-related issues, underscoring the health impacts of climate change.

A significant point raised was the WHO Director-General’s report on the health emergency prevention, preparedness, response, and resilience (HEPR) framework. This report recognized the risks posed by unpredictable funding, which can undermine health systems worldwide. The Independent Oversight and Advisory Committee (IOAC) also provided valuable recommendations to enhance WHO’s emergency operations.

Strengthening International Health Regulations

Member States reviewed progress made under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), which guide countries in handling public health emergencies. In 2024 alone, WHO analyzed over 1.2 million public health risk signals, identifying and validating 429 events of international concern. All countries, except one, submitted self-assessment reports, and numerous evaluations were performed to bolster preparedness and response capacities.

A notable mention was the proposal for the Director-General to notify Palestine regarding IHR adherence—a critical step in Palestine’s potential participation in these regulations. Additionally, the Assembly acknowledged standing recommendations regarding COVID-19 and mpox, aiming to enhance ongoing public health responses.

Research and Public Health Measures

Recognizing the importance of evidence-based practices, Member States approved initiatives to solidify research on public health and social measures aimed at controlling outbreaks. These nonpharmaceutical interventions, such as disease screening and hygiene practices, have proven essential in managing infectious diseases like COVID-19. However, the evidence supporting their effectiveness remains limited, prompting the need for further research and evaluation.

Addressing Health Needs in Ukraine

In light of ongoing conflicts, the Director-General reported on WHO’s response to the humanitarian health crisis in Ukraine. In 2024, WHO managed to reach approximately 4.7 million people with health support, in addition to aiding over 400,000 refugees in neighboring countries. This effort included the distribution of medical supplies worth over US$32.5 million to health facilities in Ukraine and US$4.9 million to support refugees. Member States approved measures to continue restoring and strengthening Ukraine’s healthcare system while rejecting amendments proposed by the Russian Federation aimed at altering the draft decision.

Health Conditions in Occupied Palestinian Territory

The situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, particularly in Gaza, remains dire. Reports indicate severe humanitarian crises, with numerous attacks on healthcare leading to casualties and widespread displacement. WHO’s efforts focus on ensuring essential health services and monitoring public health conditions, despite significant obstacles. The recognition of these challenges led to the approval of resolutions aimed at safeguarding health services in the region, stressing the need for immediate humanitarian access and protection.

Global Collaboration for Health Security

These developments highlight a crucial period where global collaboration and funding play a significant role in advancing public health despite financial challenges. Emphasizing transparency, equitable funding, and systematic evaluations, the discourse around enhancing institutional resilience in health could reshape the global health landscape moving forward.