Physician Leaders Urge U.S. to Sustain Global Health Support Amid Foreign Aid Review

The World Medical Association (WMA) is calling on the U.S. government to ensure the continuation of essential medical and humanitarian aid during the 90-day pause on foreign assistance mandated by the recent Executive Order on Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid.

The presidential order, issued on January 20, 2025, halts new obligations and disbursements of development assistance funds while programs undergo review for alignment with U.S. foreign policy.

Freezing essential humanitarian aid and critical healthcare programs could endanger vulnerable populations worldwide, WMA warns while acknowledging the administration’s focus on reassessing aid efficiency and setting new priorities.

“We urge the U.S. government to preserve life-saving medical assistance. Healthcare transcends politics—pausing aid now could lead to devastating consequences for those most in need,” said WMA President Dr. Ashok Philip.

The WMA also calls on other nations to step in and reinforce global health efforts to prevent disruptions in vital medical services. “At a time when infectious diseases, malnutrition, and humanitarian crises persist, international cooperation is essential,” Dr. Philip added.

The WMA remains committed to advocating for uninterrupted healthcare delivery and urges all governments to prioritise healthcare as a fundamental global responsibility.

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