WHO begins planning for life after the U.S. quits, Pg20

• WHO is preparing for the departure of the U.S. by January 2026, which had earlier announced withdrawal. - The U.S. provided around 18% of WHO’s total funding. - Focus of this year’s WHO assembly is on scaling down, safeguarding core functions, and restructuring funding. Detailed Insights: - Context of Withdrawal: - The U.S., under President Trump, initiated its exit process in 2020 alleging WHO mishandling of COVID. - Despite mixed signals about a reversal, the mandated exit date is January 21, 2026. - Funding Implications: - WHO is planning for a $600 million hole in its budget. - The U.S. contributions will continue until exit, but post-departure, there will be increased reliance on assessed fees and new donors. - Structural Reform Focus: - High-cost operations like vaccine approvals, disease outbreak response, HIV and obesity guidelines to be retained. - Low-priority spending, such as on publications and petrol during emergencies, is under review. - Institutional Adjustments: - WHO has begun reorganizing offices, trimming lower-priority functions. - The 2024 Assembly also discusses a historic pandemic treaty, improved investment mechanisms, and leaner administration. Key Concepts: - Assessed vs Voluntary Contributions: WHO is funded by assessed contributions (from member states, based on capacity) and voluntary donations (unrestricted or earmarked). - Multilateral Governance Stress: The episode highlights how dependency on a few donors can destabilize global institutions. - WHO Foundation: An independent body created to diversify and enhance fundraising for WHO programs. Significance: - A test case for global health diplomacy, the U.S. exit compels WHO to become financially resilient and operationally lean. - Brings focus on global health sovereignty, reducing overdependence on few funders. - India's push for equitable vaccine distribution and health R&D may gain traction as new stakeholders emerge.

Mains Mock Question:

Critically evaluate how donor dependence affects the autonomy and effectiveness of international institutions like the WHO. What steps can be taken to make them more resilient?