Novo Nordisk's $57 Million Pledge to WHO Amid US Funding Withdrawal

The Novo Nordisk Foundation has pledged up to DKK 380 million (approximately $57.76 million) to the World Health Organization (WHO) to extend their collaboration for an additional four years. This commitment, announced on May 21, 2025, aims to support initiatives in non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and healthcare system resilience. (source)

This substantial contribution comes as the WHO faces a significant funding shortfall due to the planned withdrawal of the United States, its largest contributor, by January 2026—a decision initiated by President Donald Trump. In response, the WHO has reduced its 2026-2027 budget by 20% to $4.2 billion and plans to increase member state contributions, with China expected to become the top governmental donor. (source)

The Novo Nordisk Foundation, a Danish philanthropic organization, owns Novo Holdings, the investment arm managing the assets of Novo Nordisk A/S and Novozymes A/S. Through Novo Holdings, the foundation ranks among the world's largest philanthropic entities, focusing on medical research and healthcare initiatives. In 2024, the foundation awarded close to DKK 10.1 billion (€1.35 billion) to support nearly 1,800 new projects aimed at improving health and sustainability. (source)

The WHO's financial challenges have prompted other countries and organizations to step in. Switzerland pledged $40 million, Sweden $13.5 million, Angola $8 million, and Qatar $6 million. China's substantial $500 million contribution is currently under review. (source)

The U.S. withdrawal poses significant challenges to global health initiatives. The WHO has warned that the loss of U.S. funding could lead to increased cases and deaths from diseases such as malaria and HIV. For instance, suspension of U.S. funding could result in an additional 10 million cases of HIV and 3 million unnecessary deaths. (source)

In response to the financial constraints, the WHO has approved a revised two-year budget of $4.2 billion and is requesting member states to increase their mandatory contributions by 20%. The organization is also undergoing internal restructuring to streamline operations and reduce reliance on a few major contributors. (source)

The withdrawal of U.S. funding and the subsequent financial challenges faced by the WHO have significant social and societal implications. Reduced funding may lead to the scaling back of critical health programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, exacerbating global health inequalities. The situation underscores the importance of diversified funding sources and international cooperation in addressing global health challenges.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation's substantial pledge to the WHO serves as a critical intervention amid the financial uncertainties following the U.S. withdrawal. This commitment, along with contributions from other nations and organizations, highlights the importance of diversified funding sources and international cooperation in sustaining global health initiatives.