A recent assessment by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals alarming disruptions in health services across 70% of surveyed countries due to abrupt cuts and reductions in official development assistance for health. This situation, primarily affecting low- and lower-middle-income nations, poses significant risks to global health systems, particularly in vulnerable regions. The findings underscore an urgent need for international cooperation and strategic interventions to mitigate long-term consequences.

In a comprehensive evaluation conducted between March and April 2025, involving 108 WHO country offices, it was discovered that many nations are striving to bridge funding gaps through domestic resources and alternative external channels. However, approximately 24% of these countries have reported increased out-of-pocket expenses, disproportionately affecting poorer populations. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the dual-edged nature of this crisis—while posing immediate challenges, it also propels countries toward greater self-reliance through sustainable domestic resource management.

The repercussions of reduced aid extend across all health system functions. Notably, health emergency preparedness and response have been affected in 70% of the surveyed countries, followed closely by public health surveillance at 66%. Service provision, humanitarian aid, and the health workforce also face significant disruptions. These impacts mirror those witnessed during the peak periods of the COVID-19 pandemic in certain regions.

Critical shortages in essential medicines and health products have left one-third of responding countries without necessary commodities for major service areas. Additionally, over half of these countries report job losses among health workers and disruptions to training programs. Information systems are also severely impacted, with more than 40% of countries experiencing interruptions in key health data collection mechanisms. Collaborative surveillance, health management information systems, and disease-specific reporting systems are among the most affected areas.

Eighty-one of the 108 WHO country offices have requested support in various health domains, including innovative funding strategies and targeted technical assistance. Recognizing the evolving nature of this crisis, WHO plans to continuously monitor the situation and collaborate with global health partners and donor agencies to devise effective response plans. These efforts aim to alleviate the adverse effects on health systems and promote greater sustainability.

Moving forward, addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from the global health community. By fostering collaboration and implementing strategic measures, it is possible to safeguard health systems and ensure equitable access to essential services worldwide. The transition towards self-reliance must be carefully managed to prevent further setbacks in global health progress.