European Health Authorities Call for Enhanced Support from WHO
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Synopsis
Six European health authorities are advocating for increased engagement with the WHO in response to the potential US withdrawal. They stress the need for European nations to enhance their financial contributions and expertise within the organization.
Key Takeaways
- European nations urged to engage more with WHO
- Open letter published in Lancet highlights challenges
- Call for increased financial and expert contributions
- US withdrawal poses significant risks to WHO
- WHO plays a vital role in global health management
Helsinki, Feb 16 (NationPress) In light of the potential withdrawal of the US, six national health authorities from Europe are advocating for a stronger European presence within the World Health Organization (WHO). The leaders of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) along with five other European health institutions have issued an open letter in the renowned Lancet journal, emphasizing the challenges associated with a possible US exit. The letter asserts that European nations must promptly take on a larger role within the WHO, as reported by Xinhua.
A press release from THL on Saturday stated that the letter encourages European nations to not only boost their financial support for the WHO but also to contribute more experts to the organization. The appeal was co-signed by national health bodies from Norway, Denmark, France, Austria, and Portugal.
A more robust European commitment to the WHO would "stabilize the organization" and ensure that "its values continue to guide global health policy," the letter highlighted.
The United States has historically been the largest financial contributor to the WHO and has provided numerous experts to the organization. The letter cautioned that the WHO's heavy dependence on the US represents a considerable risk, a concern that is becoming increasingly evident.
Despite its global responsibilities, the WHO operates on an annual budget of around $3 billion, which is relatively modest by international standards. The anticipated US withdrawal could create a significant financial and expertise deficit, the signatories pointed out.
The WHO is essential in handling health emergencies related to epidemics and natural disasters worldwide. It also conducts important public health initiatives in developing nations, such as maternal health programs and childhood vaccinations.
US President Donald Trump announced at the end of January that the country plans to withdraw from the WHO at the start of 2026.
