Geneva: The World Health Assembly's 78th session (WHA78) commenced Monday in Geneva, featuring participation from representatives of WHO member states and international health partners. This event unfolds in the context of a severe financial crisis for the World Health Organization, precipitated by the withdrawal of its largest donor, the United States, and a reduction in contributions from several other member states.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the session will extend until May 27 under the theme "One World for Health." Member states are slated to deliberate on WHO's future operations amid financial constraints that could impact its ability to perform essential tasks in health emergencies, disease prevention, and health system strengthening. Additionally, a historic "Pandemic Agreement" is anticipated to be adopted during the session.
This year's assembly occurs against the backdrop of a budget shortfall exceeding USD 1.7 billion for the 2026-2027 period. This financial gap has led the organization to propose a series of unprecedented measures. These include scaling down the proposed budget from USD 5.3 billion to USD 4.2 billion, reducing the number of departments from 76 to 34, decreasing senior staff from 14 to seven, implementing a 25 percent salary cut, closing offices in high-income countries, relocating others to more cost-effective locations, and launching an early retirement program.
WHO has previously emphasized that these measures are critical to maintaining essential health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, within the context of the ongoing financial crisis.
During its initial week, the assembly will tackle several pressing issues, including sustainable financing for the WHO, the adoption of a program budget for upcoming years, and broader global health concerns such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, health security, and health workforce development.