WHO Unveils Ambitious $1.5 Billion Health Emergency Initiative to Address Global Health Turmoil

Conflicts, climate variations, epidemics, and displacement are merging to forge an unmatched global health emergency, with 305 million individuals urgently needing humanitarian aid in 2025. In light of this, the World Health Organization (WHO) is urging for US$ 1.5 billion for its 2025 Health Emergency Appeal (HEA) to support critical health interventions across the globe.

The appeal, announced today by WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, details the essential priorities and resources required to manage 42 ongoing health crises, which include 17 Grade 3 emergencies — the most critical, necessitating the utmost response. Given that health systems are stretched thin and global financial resources are diminishing, the US$ 1.5 billion is imperative to assist those facing the most challenging circumstances.

“Conflicts, outbreaks, climate-related calamities, and other health emergencies are no longer isolated or sporadic – they are unyielding, interconnected, and escalating,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “From managing cholera outbreaks to delivering mental health resources in conflict-affected areas, WHO’s efforts go beyond immediate care. We enable communities to safeguard themselves, emphasize equity, and foster a legacy of readiness. This appeal aims to facilitate WHO in saving lives, maintaining the right to health, and providing hope where there is little.”

A unified response to safeguard at-risk populations

WHO is dedicated to providing urgent health aid, even in conflict-stricken areas like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the occupied Palestinian territory, and Sudan. WHO’s emergency response is in sync with broader humanitarian initiatives and emphasizes delivering crucial care and medical resources; addressing malnutrition and enhancing maternal and child health; implementing vaccination drives to avert disease outbreaks; and supplying mental health assistance to those affected by trauma.

The Appeal underscores four significant challenges confronting the world today: climate change, conflict, displacement, and disease outbreaks. These factors contribute to deeper, prolonged health crises and heighten the risk for the most vulnerable populations.

The appeal also outlines the specific priorities and financial requirements for each of the Grade 3 emergencies that WHO is engaged in.

With the backing of donors and allies, WHO strives to fulfill its distinctive role in health emergencies, while upholding the principles of international humanitarian law, ensuring that no individual is overlooked even in the most daunting circumstances.

A call to mobilization

This appeal transcends mere funding – it represents a call to mobilization. As emergencies become more frequent and intense, the chasm between global demands and available resources continues to expand. Supporting WHO’s Health Emergency Appeal is essential for fostering global unity and health equity.