WHO unveils $1.5 billion appeal
To address global health crises
A convergence of conflict, climate upheaval, epidemics, and mass displacement has compounded the severity of a global health catastrophe, with a staggering 305 million individuals urgently requiring humanitarian aid this year.
In a decisive response to this unprecedented crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a $1.5 billion Health Emergency Appeal (HEA) for 2025. The HEA aims to facilitate life-saving medical interventions worldwide.
The appeal, announced by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, emphasises the grave urgency of addressing the 42 critical health emergencies unfolding worldwide. Among these, 17 are classified as Grade 3 emergencies, the most dire and complex crises, demanding immediate and extensive global mobilisation of resources and support.
In an era of strained health systems and dwindling international financial resources, WHO’s bold call for substantial funding underscores the urgency of coordinated global action. With numerous nations grappling with the fallout of war, environmental degradation, and public health threats, the organisation has highlighted the acute need for resources to combat disease outbreaks, support the displaced, and reinforce healthcare infrastructures that have been pushed to breaking point.
“This appeal is not just about funding,” Dr Tedros asserted. “It is about ensuring that no one is left behind in these overwhelming challenges. Health systems worldwide are at breaking point, and the humanitarian cost of inaction is too high.”
Among the 42 health emergencies outlined in the appeal, a significant portion concerns disease outbreaks such as cholera, measles, and Ebola, which continue to wreak havoc in regions already overwhelmed by conflict and environmental disasters. The funding will support targeted interventions, including delivering essential medicines, vaccines, and critical healthcare services to some of the most vulnerable populations.
In addition to epidemic control, WHO’s 2025 appeal emphasises the need for comprehensive healthcare assistance to displaced persons, many of whom find themselves in refugee camps where health services are non-existent or grossly inadequate. These displaced populations, often fleeing from the dual threats of violence and climate change, are at an elevated risk of infectious diseases, malnutrition, and mental health issues.
Dr Tedros called for a global coalition of governments, philanthropists, and international agencies to unite in this monumental effort, warning that failure to act could result in catastrophic consequences for the affected regions and the broader global community.
“The scope of these crises is beyond the capacity of any single nation or organisation,” he explained. “We must work together, or we risk seeing these emergencies spiral into full-blown humanitarian disasters.”
The appeal comes as health systems worldwide are already overwhelmed by the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, compounded by the rising threat of climate-induced health crises. The WHO’s commitment to responding to these multiple health challenges is critical to the millions directly affected and ensuring the global community’s resilience against future health emergencies.
Image: The WHO appeal emphasises the grave urgency of addressing the 42 critical health emergencies unfolding worldwide. Credit: Pranidchakan Boonrom
