Global health leaders have hailed the $1.9 billion pledged at the recent international summit to eradicate polio as a major step toward ending the crippling disease. However, experts warn that despite the pledge, a substantial funding gap remains due to recent reductions in contributions from several donor countries.
The pledges were announced at a high-level virtual summit convened by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF, bringing together governments, foundations, and private-sector partners. The funds are intended to support vaccination campaigns, surveillance programs, and emergency response measures in polio-endemic regions.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, described the pledges as a “critical investment in the health and future of children worldwide,” but emphasised that the world still faces an uphill battle. “While $1.9 billion is encouraging, the funding gap caused by donor cuts could undermine global eradication efforts if not urgently addressed,” he said.
The shortfall is largely attributed to reduced contributions from some historically major donors, reflecting budget pressures and shifting priorities. Public health experts caution that without sufficient financing, immunisation campaigns in high-risk countries could be delayed, leaving millions of children vulnerable to polio outbreaks.
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) estimates that an additional $2.2 billion will be required over the next two years to achieve eradication goals, highlighting the urgency for renewed commitments from governments and private donors.
Despite these challenges, health advocates remain optimistic. The latest pledges signal continued global attention on polio eradication and provide momentum for targeted vaccination drives, especially in regions where the disease remains endemic, including parts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and several African countries.
Officials stressed that sustained funding, political commitment, and strong local health infrastructure will be critical to ensuring the world finally eliminates polio.
