Geneva – In a notable show of support for global health initiatives, world leaders have pledged at least $210 million to the World Health Association (WHO) during a high-level pledging event held at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly. this financial commitment aims to address escalating global health challenges and underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation through contributions to WHO’s Investment Round (IR). Further solidifying this commitment, member states approved an increase in assessed contributions, adding an additional $90 million annually, marking a crucial step toward WHO’s lasting financing.

Investment Round: A Lifeline for Global Health

The Investment Round is designed to raise funds for WHO’s comprehensive strategy for global health,known as the Fourteenth General Programme of Work. This ambitious program aims to save an estimated 40 million lives over the next four years. The pledges announced represent substantial contributions from both governmental bodies and philanthropic organizations, highlighting a unified front in tackling global health crises.

Director-General’s Gratitude and the Power of Multilateralism

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed his gratitude for the widespread support, stating:

I am grateful to every Member state and partner that has pledged towards the investment round. In a challenging climate for global health, these funds will help us to preserve and extend our life-saving work. They show that multilateralism is alive and well.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

His remarks underscore the critical role of international collaboration in addressing global health challenges and the importance of sustained financial support for WHO’s initiatives.

Broadening the Donor Base

The pledging event saw participation from both long-standing allies and new contributors,effectively broadening WHO’s donor base with fresh voluntary funding. The event, moderated by Mr. Moazzam Malik, CEO of Save the Children UK, featured pledges from a diverse group of nations and organizations, including:

• Angola
• Cambodia
• China
• Gabon
• Mongolia
• Qatar
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Tanzania
• The ELMA Vaccines and Immunization Foundation (with the WHO Foundation)
• Fondation Botnar
• Laerdal Global Health (with the WHO Foundation)
• The Nippon Foundation
• The Novo Nordisk Foundation

The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) also announced an additional $13 million and committed to further increases in funding, demonstrating a strong commitment to children’s health.

Flexible Funding: A Strategic Advantage

Of the $210 million pledged for the Investment Round, a significant portion is allocated to WHO’s base budget from 2025-2028. Notably, eight of the donors included a flexible contribution to WHO, which is considered the most valuable type of funding due to its adaptability. Moreover, four of the donors were first-time contributors, signaling a growing global commitment to WHO’s mission.

Individual Giving: A Testament to Global Solidarity

WHO’s fundraising efforts have also extended to individual donors through the One World Movement. Almost 8,000 individuals from around the globe have become ‘Member Citizens,’ contributing nearly $600,000 in donations, many on a monthly basis. This collective effort represents a powerful expression of global solidarity and reinforces the idea that every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.

Strategic Value of Diversified Financing

Speakers at the pledging event emphasized the critical need for continued investment and the strategic importance of flexible and diversified financing. This approach ensures that WHO remains responsive, country-focused, and aligned with national health priorities as it evolves into a more agile and efficient institution. The event marked a pivotal moment in WHO’s ongoing journey toward achieving sustainable funding.

Pledges Overview

The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the additional amounts pledged for the WHO Investment Round:

As the Investment Round progresses, the pledges made at this event serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of partnership in navigating uncertain times. Each contribution brings the world closer to achieving better health for all, united in the mission of “One world for Health.”