Rotary’s response to the U.S.’s plan to withdraw from the WHO, USAID funding freeze

Transcript :

Rotary remains committed to eradicating polio, despite the U.S. decision to withdraw from the WHO, a key partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).

As a founding GPEI partner, Rotary has worked for decades with governments and organizations to reduce polio cases by 99.9% since 1988.

The organization remains dedicated to protecting every child, even in the most remote and challenging regions.

Rotary is confident that GPEI will continue to adapt, innovate, and ensure vaccine accessibility worldwide.

Additionally, Rotary’s collaboration with USAID has been affected by a stop-work order, impacting various projects, including the Hearts of Europe initiative.

Rotary has informed those involved and is working on alternative funding solutions to support ongoing efforts.

Despite these challenges, Rotary remains resolute in achieving a polio-free world.

Having eradicated smallpox, humanity can now ensure polio becomes the second disease eliminated globally, fulfilling the long-standing promise of a healthier future for all.