In its recently published Results Report for 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) provides a comprehensive update on global health advancements, emphasizing significant strides despite financial challenges. The report, presented ahead of the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly in May 2025, evaluates WHO's progress in executing its 2024–2025 program budget and aligns with the strategic goals set forth in the Thirteenth General Programme of Work (2019–2025). It highlights achievements across various health indicators while acknowledging ongoing obstacles to achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Key Achievements and Challenges in Global Health
In a world marked by overlapping crises, WHO continues to make meaningful contributions to health outcomes worldwide. As of 2024, an estimated 431 million additional individuals have benefited from essential health services without facing catastrophic expenses, driven by improvements in healthcare staffing, contraception access, and HIV treatment availability. However, challenges persist in immunization coverage and pandemic preparedness. For instance, although 637 million more people are better protected against health emergencies through enhanced surveillance and equitable tool distribution, financial limitations hinder pandemic response efforts, particularly concerning H5N1 avian flu outbreaks.
The report also reveals that 1.4 billion more people enjoy improved health and well-being due to reductions in tobacco use, better air quality, cleaner household fuels, and expanded WASH access. Nevertheless, rising obesity rates and alcohol consumption pose new challenges. Notably, seven countries eliminated neglected tropical diseases in 2024, bringing the total number of successful eliminations to 54. Other milestones include increased mental health service accessibility, successful polio vaccination campaigns in Gaza, mpox test distribution across Africa, and emergency medical team interventions globally.
Despite these successes, foreign aid stagnation and reduced health budgets strain already fragile systems, especially in underserved communities. To enhance efficiency, WHO has implemented digital innovations, strengthened risk management, and improved data utilization. Additionally, a draft pandemic agreement aims to bolster global health infrastructure and workforce readiness.
Achieving sustained progress hinges on predictable funding, as emphasized by Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. The Investment Round has secured over US$1.7 billion in pledges, covering 53% of voluntary funding needs.
From Geneva to remote regions, WHO's commitment ensures accountability and measurable results, guiding future actions based on lessons learned.
Inspiration and Perspective
This report underscores the resilience and adaptability required to address complex global health issues. It inspires reflection on the importance of international collaboration and sustainable financing in maintaining and advancing public health initiatives. As we navigate an era of economic uncertainty, it is crucial to recognize the value of robust health systems not only as safeguards against emergencies but also as catalysts for overall societal well-being. The efforts highlighted remind us that collective action can lead to transformative change, ensuring healthier lives for generations to come.