In an extraordinary manifestation of worldwide solidarity, the WHO announced almost $700 million in new funding commitments from European countries, foundations, and other partners and $300 million in reaffirmed commitments. It was during the WHO Investment Round Signature Event held during the World Health Summit in Berlin, cohosted by Germany, France, and Norway.
These commitments underscore the pressing need for investments in WHO’s mission to enhance health outcomes globally. The funding is crucial as WHO embarks on its Fourteenth General Programme of Work for 2025-2028, which was approved by its 194 Member States at the World Health Assembly in May. The inaugural Investment Round, also launched at this Assembly, aims to secure predictable and flexible funding to enable effective partnerships with countries in implementing this global health strategy.
Key figures at the event included German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the Prime Ministers of Estonia, Montenegro, and Norway, along with representatives from various countries and leading global health figures. Chancellor Scholz said that the Germany will contribute nearly $400 million over four years with more than $260 million in new, voluntary funding. He urged “sustainable financing” for the WHO, pointing out that “the WHO’s work benefits us all. What it needs for this work is sustainable financing that provides certainty for planning and flexibility for response.”
Significant commitments came from global health organizations, including Wellcome, which pledged $50 million, and several other foundations that each committed $10 million. Additionally, Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, announced a $50 million contribution to the Investment Round, which includes part of a $57 million pledge from Foundation S and Sanofi.
The event also highlighted substantial backing from African nations, with 16 governments already pledging support. The Minister of Health for Mauritania reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to WHO’s initiatives. Countries such as France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, along with the Gates Foundation, also announced their continued funding support.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, concluded the event by expressing gratitude to all donors and partners, recognizing the challenge of securing resources amid competing priorities. The engagement process will continue towards the G20 leaders’ Summit next month, chaired by Brazilian President Lula da Silva, where further commitments to advance global health equity are anticipated.
The event in Berlin concluded with a musical finale, symbolizing the collective resolve of all participants to support a fully funded WHO capable of addressing urgent global health challenges.
