US Cuts to WHO Funding Under Tedros Raise Global Health Concerns Amid $4.2 Billion Budget Reduction
Published on 5.21.25
The US government's decision to cut funding to the United Nations has sparked concerns about its implications for global health. Tedros, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), has expressed concern over sudden cuts to bilateral aid, which are causing severe disruptions in countries and threatening the health of millions.
The WHO's budget for the next two years has been revised down to $4.2 billion, equivalent to global military expenditure every eight hours. This reduction may inadvertently harm disease response systems, as a single supply chain or security contract shutdown could have far-reaching consequences.
USAID experts must identify these potential unintended effects and prioritize teams working on high-priority responses in countries where peacemaking efforts are underway. The administration should leverage budget cuts to push for transparency and reform within the WHO.
Retaining USAID officers with expertise in humanitarian diplomacy is crucial to ensure that US interests are represented effectively at the UN. By prioritizing these efforts, the administration can mitigate the negative impacts of budget cuts and maintain US influence within the international organization.