World Health Assembly 2025: budget cuts and pandemic treaty

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.

Copied