WHA78 Kicks Off In Geneva Amid Financial Crisis Following US Withdrawal

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) GENEVA, May 19 (KUNA) -- The World Health Assembly's 78th session (WHA78) kicked off Monday in Geneva with the participation of WHO member states' representatives and international health partners.
This comes amidst the most severe financial crisis since the establishment of WHO following the withdrawal of its largest donor the US, and a decline in contributions from several other member states.
The session will continue until May 27, under the theme "One World for Health."
Member states are scheduled to discuss WHO's future in light of financial pressures that threaten its ability to carry out vital work in areas of health emergencies, disease prevention and strengthening health systems, additionally, a historic "Pandemic Agreement" is expected to be adopted during the session.
This year's meeting comes amid a budget shortfall exceeding USD 1.7 billion for 2026-2027, prompting the organization to announce an unprecedented package of measures.
These include reducing the proposed budget from USD 5.3 billion to USD 4.2 billion, cutting the number of departments from 76 to 34, reducing the number of senior staff from 14 to seven, a 25 percent salary cut, the closure of offices in high-income countries and relocation of others to lower-cost locations, and the introduction of an early retirement program.
WHO has previously stated that these steps are essential to ensure the continuity of essential health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, amid the complex financial crisis.
During its first week, the assembly will address several critical issues, including sustainable financing for WHO, adoption of a program budget for the coming years, in addition to global health issues such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, health security, and health workforce development. (end)
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