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The United States is reportedly planning to end its financial support for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, a move that could have significant repercussions for global immunization efforts. According to documents cited by multiple news outlets, a leaked spreadsheet from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) indicates the termination of more than 5,000 awards to international aid groups, including Gavi, through 2030.
Gavi, an independent public-private partnership founded in 2000, has played a critical role in expanding access to vaccines in low- and middle-income countries. The organization, backed by the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the World Bank, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has helped vaccinate over one billion children in 78 countries, preventing nearly 19 million deaths from diseases such as measles, Ebola, and malaria.
The U.S. has historically been a major donor to Gavi, providing approximately 12-15% of the alliance’s funding and pledging over $1.5 billion through 2030. In recent years, U.S. annual contributions reached $300 million, and the country played a leading role in funding COVAX, the global initiative to distribute COVID-19 vaccines.
Despite these reports, Gavi’s leadership has stated they have not received official confirmation from the U.S. government regarding the termination of funding. Dr. Sania Nishtar, Gavi’s Chief Executive, emphasized that the organization is actively engaging with the White House and Congress to secure both the $300 million approved by Congress for this year and longer-term funding commitments. She warned that a funding cut of this magnitude could be “disastrous,” potentially resulting in more than one million deaths from preventable diseases.
The reported U.S. withdrawal comes at a critical time, as Gavi prepares for its next replenishment period and continues to address the setbacks in global immunization efforts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“If diseases such as measles and TB increase anywhere in the world, it is a hazard to us all,” said Dr. David Elliman, a children’s health expert at University College London, highlighting the global impact of reduced vaccination coverage.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available reports and statements as of June 26, 2025. As of publication, Gavi has not received official confirmation from the U.S. government regarding the termination of funding. Developments may occur as discussions between Gavi, the White House, and Congress continue. Readers are advised to consult official government and Gavi sources for the most current information.
