The World Health Organisation (WHO) is launching its first-ever crowdfunding campaign, “One Dollar, One World,” in a move to bridge funding gaps caused by the United States’ withdrawal of key financial support.
The initiative, which began as a grassroots effort, has evolved into a global movement, with nearly 5,000 donors from 140 countries contributing to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“The power of the ‘One Dollar, One World’ movement comes from the people,” WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus said in a statement published on the WHO’s website. “It shows that in times of crisis, people everywhere can unite to protect and promote health.”
The US, once a major WHO donor, pulled its funding under policy changes citing the organization’s “failure to adopt reforms” and “political influence of member states.” The decision, signed into effect by President Donald Trump in January, triggered widespread concern among global health leaders.
Despite the setback, WHO is leveraging its 150 country offices and partnering with the WHO Foundation to mobilize grassroots support. Funds raised through the campaign will be directed to critical health initiatives in underserved communities.
“This campaign started with one person, but it belongs to all of us,” said Tania Cernuschi, the WHO staffer behind the movement. “It proves individuals can make a difference. Together, we are stronger.”
Meanwhile, WHO is cutting costs by reviewing programs, freezing recruitment, and reducing travel expenses as it navigates financial uncertainty.
The organization continues to call for dialogue with the US, emphasising that global health security depends on collaboration, not division.
