A “health financing emergency” must drive country-led, data-driven solutions
Ministers from multiple countries hit by the abrupt cuts in external funding for health agreed on the urgent need for country-owned and implemented strategies – and a laser-sharp focus on health data – at a ministerial dialogue co-hosted by WHO and the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly.
Specifically, this is a time for countries to reduce their reliance on external health information systems and external financing; build out their domestic data infrastructure, from vital statistics to downstream impact and return-on-investment; and establish resilient systems designed to withstand shocks, so that access to essential services is protected.
Dr Tedros said, “From expanding domestic financing to pioneering real-time data systems, many of you are advancing solutions that are scalable, sustainable and rooted in equity. Data and sustainable financing are not just technical matters. They are political choices. They shape who is reached, how quickly, and with what quality of care. And they determine whether we progress or fall behind."
Also discussed: strategies to improve domestic financing capacity while maximizing impact include: strengthening tax administration; exploring revenue sources such as taxes on such items as food, alcohol and tobacco; setting up population-wide mandatory health coverage schemes, coupled with subsidies for low-income households and vulnerable population groups; promoting strategic purchasing of health supplies; prioritizing health in public spending; and integrating externally-funded programmes into domestic financing systems and priorities.
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Report on the health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including east Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan
On 21 May 2025, the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly noted a report from the Director-General, outlining WHO’s humanitarian and emergency health response in the occupied Palestinian territory, including east Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan, from January 2024 to February 2025.
Member States expressed grave concerns over the deterioration of the health system in Gaza, including forced displacement, overcrowding and deteriorating sanitation, and attacks on health, stressing the need for concerted action to address the dire health needs.
Related documents
A78/B/CONF./1: Health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including east Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan
A78/B/CONF./1 Add.1: Financial and administrative implications for the Secretariat of decisions proposed for adoption by the Health Assembly
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