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WHO adapts to Funding Shifts and Geopolitical Changes in the Western Pacific

The Changing Landscape of Global Health funding

As the US withdraws from the World Health Organization and cuts overseas aid, regional partnerships are critical to safeguarding the health of member countries in a region where climate change and chronic diseases loom large. This shift necessitates a re-evaluation of health governance and financing models.

These are reflections of the WHO’s Western Pacific regional director,saia Ma’u Piukala,as he prepares to attend the World Health Summit (October 12-14) in Berlin,Germany,and a key regional meeting in Fiji (October 20-24,2025).

Adapting to the New Reality

Before the regional meeting in Fiji, Piukala will join other global health leaders to discuss adapting to dwindling foreign assistance. He emphasizes the crucial role of philanthropic partnerships and the enduring importance of multilateralism in health, particularly in the face of misinformation and disinformation.

The Impact of the US Withdrawal

The US withdrawal has prompted WHO to rethink and restructure its global operations. While acknowledging the pain of this loss,Piukala views it as an opportunity to refocus and diversify funding sources. he notes that member states in the Western Pacific have already demonstrated strong support.

“To cite a cliché, from adversity comes opportunity – and we are using this moment to recalibrate and strategise anew, with a sharper focus than ever on what we need to do and who we need to partner with to ensure we can fulfil our mandate,” Piukala stated.

Strengthening Multilateralism

Piukala asserts that multilateralism in health is not in crisis but is, in fact, more essential than ever. The Pandemic Agreement provides countries with tools to better prepare for and respond to emerging health threats, including those with pandemic potential. The upcoming Regional Committee meeting in Fiji will focus on implementing these frameworks to strengthen regional readiness.

The Vital Role of Partnerships

Partnerships,particularly with organizations like the Asia-based Institute of Philanthropy,are considered the lifeblood of WHO’s work,especially in the Western Pacific Region,which includes many middle- and lower-income countries. These collaborations help connect WHO with new philanthropic actors who may not fully understand the organization’s role.

“Once we show the real-world impact of our work – backed by solid data – interest grows and doors open,” Piukala explains.

He shared the WHO story and key health priorities for the region at the recent Asian Venture Philanthropy Network conference in Hong Kong, fostering valuable conversations.