WHO Chief Warns of Major Budget Shortfall Following U.S. Funding Cuts

The World Health Organization (WHO) is facing a significant financial crisis after the United States declined to pay its assessed contributions for 2024 and 2025, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced on Tuesday.

Speaking to member states, Tedros revealed that the shortfall — worsened by cuts in official development assistance from other nations — could leave the agency with a budget gap of between $560 million and $650 million for the 2026–2027 period.

“The refusal of the US to pay its assessed contributions for 2024 and 2025, combined with reductions in official development assistance by some other countries, means we are facing a salary gap for the 2026–27 biennium of between $560 and $650 million,” he said, according to a transcript of his opening remarks.

READ ALSO: Cristiano Ronaldo Left Out of Al-Nassr Squad for Saudi Pro League Clash Against Damac

The financial strain has already started to impact the organization, forcing it to scale back operations and lay off staff — a move that could have serious implications for global health initiatives, especially in vulnerable regions that depend on WHO support.

The budgetary challenges come at a time when global health threats — from emerging infectious diseases to ongoing humanitarian crises — require coordinated and well-resourced responses. WHO’s funding structure, which relies heavily on voluntary contributions from member states, has long been criticized for its vulnerability to political and economic fluctuations.

With this growing financial uncertainty, the organization is urging member nations to reaffirm their commitments and ensure WHO remains equipped to lead international health efforts in the years ahead. As the world grapples with new health challenges, the WHO’s future capacity to respond may hinge on renewed international solidarity and stable funding.