This week in Geneva, representatives from almost every country will gather for the World Health Assembly, focusing on major budget cuts and a new agreement to tackle COVID-level health threats.
This year’s World Health Assembly, under the theme “One World for Health,” faces financial strains as key donors reduce funding, forcing the WHO to cut staff and programs. The organization proposes a trimmed $4.2 billion budget for 2026-2027 and seeks a 20% increase in member dues to reduce reliance on voluntary donations.
A historic pandemic treaty aiming to improve global preparedness and response is set for adoption, though details on sharing virus samples and access to vaccines remain unresolved. Other priorities include tackling non-communicable diseases, addressing climate change’s health impacts, and extending the global dementia strategy through 2031.
While countries are expected to approve key measures, experts warn that funding shortages could limit progress. The real test lies in delivering results beyond the assembly.
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17:05
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan
The Tazhen border checkpoint on the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border will remain closed for an additional four months, until September 1, 2025, according to Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee (KDG) of the Ministry of Finance.
17:03
Region News
Azerbaijan and Israel have reaffirmed their strong bilateral ties as Defense Ministers Zakir Hasanov and Israel Katz met in Tel Aviv to discuss enhanced security cooperation and mutual strategic interests.
16:49
Vatican News
U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Monday, signaling a potential reset in relations between the Trump administration and the Holy See, with a renewed focus on global peacemaking.
16:47
Ukraine-Russia
President Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for a 30-day ceasefire and direct talks with Russia to save lives and provide a basis for diplomacy, following negotiations in Türkiye. Kyiv stresses the need for global pressure on Moscow to end the war.
16:00
World News
Germany's finance ministry is pushing forward with its 2025 and 2026 budget plans, focusing on fiscal savings while addressing security and economic challenges, according to a recent government document.
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