The Swedish government has made a decision regarding Sweden’s contribution to the World Health Organization (WHO) for the year 2023. With a donation of 180 million SEK, Sweden is supporting WHO’s vital work in assisting countries worldwide with their health-related efforts, particularly in nations facing humanitarian crises.
“We are facing extensive humanitarian and health-related crises, which makes WHO’s work highly relevant. By bolstering support to WHO, we contribute to protecting and promoting health worldwide, especially in resource-limited countries and those affected by war and conflict,” stated Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Johan Forssell.
The decision entails Sweden’s voluntary support to WHO amounting to 180 million SEK in 2023, in addition to the annual membership fee. Earlier this year, the government also made a decision enabling WHO to relocate its office for non-communicable diseases from Moscow to Copenhagen. Sweden has been proactive in ensuring a more sustainable financing of WHO by urging other countries to increase their contributions to the organization’s budget.
“Currently, half of the world’s population lacks access to clean water and sanitation. Climate change and conflicts increase the risk of disease spread and infections, posing a serious threat to people’s health. Preventing infections and diseases is also crucial in tackling antibiotic resistance. WHO plays a central role in promoting good health for all, including global efforts for sustainable access to and management of water and sanitation,” said Minister for Health and Social Affairs, Jakob Forssmed.
WHO has played a pivotal role in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the organization is working on strengthening global protection against future health threats, a crucial endeavor to equip countries worldwide for forthcoming pandemics.
The work of WHO makes a significant difference for billions of people worldwide, particularly those living in poverty and vulnerable situations. With Sweden’s support, the organization can more effectively prevent and manage health threats in the future.
World Health Organization (WHO) WHO is the United Nations’ specialized agency for health, tasked with leading and coordinating international health efforts and supporting member countries’ governments in developing and implementing health policies and healthcare.
WHO’s work is based on three overarching goals: ensuring one billion people have access to health services, protecting one billion people from health emergencies, and enabling one billion more people to enjoy better health.
Sweden financially supports WHO through annual contributions, enabling the organization to carry out its global operations effectively in line with its approved work program by all member countries. Through Sida (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency), Sweden also contributes to various WHO projects, particularly in the areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights.
https://www.regeringen.se/pressmeddelanden/2023/07/sverige-starker-stodet-till-who/