WHO Implements 20% Budget Cut Following U.S. Withdrawal
The organization faces a $600 million shortfall in 2025, forcing reductions in personnel and global health programs.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a 20% budget reduction for 2025, equivalent to $600 million, following the U.S. decision to withdraw.
- The United States, previously the WHO's largest contributor, provided 16.3% of its budget during the 2022-2023 cycle, mostly through voluntary contributions for specific projects.
- Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated the cuts will impact personnel and missions, prioritizing reductions at headquarters and across all regions.
- The U.S. withdrawal, justified by President Trump as addressing perceived financial imbalances, exacerbates pre-existing financial strains and reduced global development aid.
- The WHO has also proposed a reduced budget of $4.2 billion for 2026-2027, marking a 21% decrease from earlier projections due to worsening funding conditions.