Ending Polio Possible Despite Funding Cut: WHO

Ending polio possible despite funding cut: WHO

Eradicating polio is still possible despite significant funding cuts, global health officials have said as they outlined how they will cope with the shortfall. The budget of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, a partnership including the World Health Organization and the Gates Foundation, will take a 30% cut in 2026 and has a $1.7 billion funding gap up to 2029, the organisation says. The shortfall is largely driven by a global pullback fro…

WHO warns $1.7bn funding shortfall threatens polio eradication efforts

The significant funding reductions mean certain activities will simply not happen: WHO’s polio eradication director.

Polio fight faces cuts, but hope remains

Global health leaders say the world can still end polio. However, major funding cuts now threaten progress. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) will lose 30% of its budget in 2026. It also faces a $1.7 billion gap until 2029. This shortfall comes as countries like the U.S., UK, and Germany reduce foreign aid. The U.S. also plans to leave the World Health Organization. In response, GPEI will focus on high-risk regions. Essential work w…