Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Director-General's foreword
Progress is possible, even in uncertain times.
Despite growing global pressures on health systems, countries continue to advance towards universal health coverage, stronger health security, and healthier populations — supported by WHO’s work in over 150 countries, territories and areas.
This mid-term Results Report for 2024–2025 provides a clear, evidence-based account of what has been achieved so far under the 13th General Programme of Work, and what remains to be done. It reaffirms our commitment to accountability, transparency, and measurable impact.
The data show that real progress is possible when we work together. An estimated 431 million more people are now covered by essential health services without suffering catastrophic financial costs. In health emergencies, 637 million more people are better protected through stronger preparedness, surveillance, workforce capacity, and equitable access to tools and services, supported by reforms such as the amendments to the International Health Regulations. And 1.4 billion more people are living healthier lives, reflecting gains in tobacco control, air quality, clean household energy, and water, sanitation and hygiene.
These advances reflect the combined efforts of Member States, partners, and WHO’s global workforce. They are underpinned by a focus on equity, community engagement, multisectoral collaboration, investments in the health workforce and information systems, and important steps towards more predictable and sustainable financing.
At the same time, we must recognize the challenges ahead. The global financial landscape is becoming more constrained, and in the years to come, sustaining and accelerating results will require renewed commitment and investment. WHO’s capacity to deliver high-impact support will depend on securing the resources needed to match the ambition of our mission.
I thank Member States for their important decision to strengthen WHO’s financial foundation, including the commitment to increase assessed contributions to 50% of WHO’s core budget by the 2030–2031 biennium. This is a major step towards ensuring that WHO remains strong, effective, and prepared for the future.
I am deeply grateful to WHO staff around the world for their professionalism, dedication, and service, and to our Member States and partners for their steadfast support. Together, we have shown that progress is not only possible — it is within our reach. Together, we must safeguard these gains and continue working for a healthier, safer, and fairer world for all.
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Progress is possible, even in uncertain times.
Despite growing global pressures on health systems, countries continue to advance towards universal health coverage, stronger health security, and healthier populations — supported by WHO’s work in over 150 countries, territories and areas.
This mid-term Results Report for 2024–2025 provides a clear, evidence-based account of what has been achieved so far under the 13th General Programme of Work, and what remains to be done. It reaffirms our commitment to accountability, transparency, and measurable impact.
The data show that real progress is possible when we work together. An estimated 431 million more people are now covered by essential health services without suffering catastrophic financial costs. In health emergencies, 637 million more people are better protected through stronger preparedness, surveillance, workforce capacity, and equitable access to tools and services, supported by reforms such as the amendments to the International Health Regulations. And 1.4 billion more people are living healthier lives, reflecting gains in tobacco control, air quality, clean household energy, and water, sanitation and hygiene.
These advances reflect the combined efforts of Member States, partners, and WHO’s global workforce. They are underpinned by a focus on equity, community engagement, multisectoral collaboration, investments in the health workforce and information systems, and important steps towards more predictable and sustainable financing.
At the same time, we must recognize the challenges ahead. The global financial landscape is becoming more constrained, and in the years to come, sustaining and accelerating results will require renewed commitment and investment. WHO’s capacity to deliver high-impact support will depend on securing the resources needed to match the ambition of our mission.
I thank Member States for their important decision to strengthen WHO’s financial foundation, including the commitment to increase assessed contributions to 50% of WHO’s core budget by the 2030–2031 biennium. This is a major step towards ensuring that WHO remains strong, effective, and prepared for the future.
I am deeply grateful to WHO staff around the world for their professionalism, dedication, and service, and to our Member States and partners for their steadfast support. Together, we have shown that progress is not only possible — it is within our reach. Together, we must safeguard these gains and continue working for a healthier, safer, and fairer world for all.
Read More Download
