Global Health Partners Commit Over $345 Million for WHO’s Future Initiatives

In a momentous gathering aimed at emphasizing the critical need for investment in global health, nations from the WHO South-East Asia Region, alongside major partner organizations, collectively committed more than $345 million to fund the core programs of the World Health Organization for the 2025-2028 period.

The event, held during the WHO South-East Asia Regional Committee’s inaugural session, convened Health Ministries and prominent development and philanthropic partners, such as the Gates Foundation, GAVI, the Global Fund, the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, UNICEF, and others. These organizations reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring sustained and reliable financial backing for WHO’s upcoming Global Programme of Work, which aims to save 40 million lives by 2028.

Saima Wazed, WHO South-East Asia’s Regional Director, noted that the region, home to a quarter of the global population, faces numerous challenges but is also equipped with significant resources and dedication from both governments and partners. She expressed her satisfaction with the shared commitment to building a healthier region.

Representatives from countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and others voiced their support for WHO’s mission. Notably, Timor-Leste pledged $1 million, while India committed a substantial $250 million to develop a Centre for Excellence for Traditional Medicine, alongside additional contributions to other health initiatives.

Leaders from GAVI and the Global Fund also stressed the importance of investing in WHO. GAVI pledged $42 million to advance the organization’s work in infectious disease control, vaccine delivery, maternal and child health, and digital health solutions.

Speaking on behalf of WHO’s Director General, Dr. Razia Pendse highlighted the event as a powerful testament to global solidarity, expressing deep gratitude to the member states and partners for their unwavering support.

As part of the larger Investment Round, more events are set to take place throughout the year, culminating in a grand pledging ceremony at the G20 summit in Brazil. These funds are essential for WHO’s core mission to safeguard global health, especially for vulnerable populations, as the organization seeks to close a $7.1 billion funding gap, with $2.2 billion already pledged.

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