The World Health Organization (WHO) has appealed for $1 billion to address health crises in 2026 across the world’s 36 most severe emergencies, including Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, and Afghanistan. The request, significantly lower than previous appeals, reflects deep cuts in foreign aid and the agency’s realistic expectations about available funding. WHO officials warned that urgent assistance is needed for an estimated 239 million people facing injuries, disease outbreaks, malnutrition, and untreated chronic conditions.
WHO health emergencies chief Chikwe Ihekweazu emphasized that the agency is prioritizing high-impact services and empowering 1,500 local partners to deliver frontline care. He cautioned that insufficient funding would leave the world more vulnerable to epidemics and pandemics. Last year, the WHO responded to 50 emergencies in 82 countries but funding shortfalls forced 6,700 health facilities to close or scale back services, cutting off 53 million people from essential care. The WHO called on countries and donors to invest in global health to safeguard lives and prevent further crises.
Credit : CGTN
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