WHO officials, donors, and diplomats are meeting in Geneva to discuss how to cope with global health crises without the U.S. as their main funder.
The U.S. began the process of leaving the WHO in 2020, and its exit is expected to be complete by January 2026, leaving a $600 million gap in WHO's budget.
WHO’s priorities include continuing to approve vaccines, medicines, and responding to outbreaks, while considering cuts to training programs and offices in wealthier countries.
The U.S. provided 18% of WHO's funding, and with its departure, China will become the largest contributor, raising its state fee contribution from 15% to 20%.
WHO officials are rethinking operations and questioning whether all current programs and publications are necessary.
The assembly will also focus on a historic agreement for handling future pandemics and efforts to raise more funds from donors.
Staff have been asked to volunteer without pay to assist with the assembly due to budget constraints.
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