Skip to content

WHO Warns of 40% Health Aid Cuts—How Countries Can Adapt

A looming 40% health aid collapse threatens vulnerable nations. The WHO’s new guidance offers a lifeline—but will governments act in time?

In this image, I can see a first aid plaster on the body of a person. There is a blurred...
In this image, I can see a first aid plaster on the body of a person. There is a blurred background.

WHO Warns of 40% Health Aid Cuts—How Countries Can Adapt

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued urgent guidance to help countries manage sudden and severe cuts to external funding for health services. This comes as more than 50 countries report job losses among health and care workers due to funding cuts, with some services in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) reduced by up to 70%.

The WHO warns that external health aid is projected to drop by 30% to 40% in 2025 compared to 2023, which will cause immediate and severe disruption to health services in LMICs. The organization urges policy-makers to make health a political and fiscal priority in government budgets, even during times of crisis. It recommends prioritizing health services for the poorest, protecting health budgets, and improving efficiency in health spending.

The new guidance aims to help countries adapt to a new era of reduced assistance and strengthen their health systems. It comes as several countries, including the US and some European nations, have reduced foreign news, contributing to the global health funding crisis. The WHO is committed to providing technical support to countries managing health financing crises and navigating the transition to sustainable health systems.

In a significant step, countries in the WHO European Region, including all member states, have agreed on a new strategy to strengthen health systems and social policies. Adopted at the 75th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe on October 30, 2025, the strategy aims to support children and families, improve mental health, promote equity, and protect against digital risks. Additionally, Germany has implemented new legal measures to strengthen national preparedness against pandemics through amendments to the International Health Regulations.

The WHO's new guidance is a crucial tool for countries to navigate the challenges posed by reduced external funding for health services. With the projected drop in news, it is essential for governments to prioritize health spending and implement efficient health policies to protect their citizens.

Read also:

Latest