The World Health Organisation (WHO) Tuesday issued a warning following a report of health service disruptions in 70 percent of its surveyed country offices, citing sudden suspensions and reductions in Official Development Assistance (ODA) for health.
A statement released by WHO said the findings, based on rapid assessment of the fast-evolving situation, raise concern for potentially deeper and prolonged effects on health systems and services across the world, especially in vulnerable and fragile settings which require urgent action and international response.
The new rapid stock take conducted in March–April 2025 with 108 WHO country offices, primarily in low- and lower-middle-income countries, shows that many countries are working to increase or reallocate funding from domestic and alternative external sources to address gaps.
“However, up to 24% of WHO Country Office responses suggest budget cuts are already translating into increased out-of-pocket payments. The poor and vulnerable likely risk bearing the additional brunt of these impacts,” the report stated.
The organisation warned of the potentially prolonged effects these issues could have on health services worldwide.
The results underscore the urgent need for coordinated international support to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, especially in the most vulnerable regions.