We summarize current news on global health and health security from the media.
The United States President, Donald Trump, has issued policies that threatens global health cooperation and the sustainability of global health programs. After deciding to leave WHO in January 2025, Trump also temporarily stopped international development assistance funds channeled through USAID.
The U.S. withdrawal from WHO could jeopardize its programs, as the US contribution account for 18 percent -- the largets donor -- of WHO's total annual funding. Meanwhile, USAID is a major donor for numerous health programs aimed at combating infectious and non-communicable diseases and strengthening health systems in developing countries.
For decades, USAID has worked with developing country governments and NGOs to address diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malaria, tackle sanitation issue, improve reproductive health and gender equality, maternal and child health, and strengthen health systems.
The freezing of USAID funds could increase health risks for people with HIV, especially in Africa and Asia, where treatment has heavily relied on USAID assistance. The same applies for other health programs that have depended on US funding for years.
The impact of this policy hasalready been felt in global health programs across Africa, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. Additionally, the termination of USAID funding also caused thousands of staff working at USAID and institution receiving the grant to suddenly lose their jobs.