China Commits $500 Million to WHO Amid US Support Withdrawal

In a significant move within the realm of global health diplomacy, China has pledged to contribute $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next five years, positioning itself to become the organization's top financial supporter. The announcement was made by Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong during the World Health Assembly in Geneva. This substantial donation aims to bolster international efforts in promoting global health security and combating unilateral policies that threaten collaborative health initiatives.

The context of this pledge is framed by the United States' decision to withdraw from the WHO, a move criticized for its perceived failure to implement necessary reforms and its susceptibility to political influence from member states. President Donald Trump directed the US to leave the organization earlier this year, citing these concerns and failure to demonstrate independence.

China’s leadership expressed that their support was intended to reinforce solidarity and mutual assistance amidst a world facing challenges from unilateral actions and geopolitical tensions. By increasing its involvement, China seeks to fill the leadership gap left by the US, and also to elevate its global influence through support for international organizations.

While the US has criticized WHO’s bureaucratic structure, China has aimed to project itself as a responsible global actor by increasing contributions to various United Nations bodies and promoting initiatives in green energy and peacekeeping. Experts suggest that China's expanded role in WHO allows it to shape global health policies favorably, exemplified by its longstanding blocking of Taiwan's membership in the assembly.

Moreover, China’s growing support for WHO and other international platforms serves to enhance its image, especially in the wake of criticism regarding its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic origin in Wuhan. Chinese officials and experts emphasize that the increased financial commitment signifies a commitment to international health cooperation.

Overall, this development reflects shifting dynamics in global health governance, with China positioning itself as a key player, amid geopolitical tensions and the US’s retreat from multilateral organizational involvement.