WHO is delivering medicines and medical equipment to countries around the world. Pictured is a WHO plane in Syria. WHO calls for $1.5 billion in emergency health assistance in 2025 Health
Conflict, climate change, epidemics and displacement have created an unprecedented global health crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday. WHO leaders stressed that 305 million people will be in urgent need of assistance in 2025 and called on the international community to provide $1.5 billion to support humanitarian medical operations around the world.
The appeal made today by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus outlines critical health priorities. The WHO chief noted that health systems around the world are working at their limits, including in crises and emergencies.
“Conflicts, disease outbreaks, climate disasters and other health emergencies are no longer isolated or random – they are inevitable, overlapping and intensifying,” Ghebreyesus said.
“From controlling cholera outbreaks to providing mental health support in conflict zones, WHO’s work goes beyond direct health care. We empower communities to protect themselves, prioritize equity and build a legacy of preparedness,” he added.
A coordinated response
WHO provides emergency health assistance around the world, including in conflict zones such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the occupied Palestinian territories and Sudan. WHO’s emergency response also includes delivering medical supplies, treating malnutrition, supporting maternal and child health, conducting vaccination campaigns and providing mental health support to communities.
With the support of donors and partners, WHO strives to fulfil its unique role in emergencies.
Call to Action
WHO’s call is about more than funding – it is a call to action. The gap between global health needs and available resources continues to widen. WHO is calling on the international community to commit the funds and take decisive action to support global health.