WHO’s 2026 emergency appeal and global health security

Abstract

The World Health Organization’s 2026 global appeal seeks nearly US$1 billion to sustain life-saving health interventions amid escalating humanitarian crises. This Letter highlights persistent funding shortfalls affecting fragile and conflict-affected states, including Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, where service suspensions and outbreaks have compounded morbidity and mortality. Despite WHO and partners reaching millions in 2025, financing remains insufficient, jeopardizing maternal and child health, outbreak response, and health system resilience. We argue that predictable, front-loaded financing is critical to support local actors, strengthen health systems, and safeguard global health security. Integrating climate-resilient infrastructure, One Health surveillance, and equity-focused strategies can mitigate preventable deaths and stabilize vulnerable populations. The 2026 appeal represents a strategic investment in global health and security, and by mobilizing front-loaded, flexible support alongside sustained assessed contributions requires urgent international solidarity and collective action.