Denmark boosts its support to WHO to improve global health

Reviewed by Emily Henderson, B.Sc.Oct 12 2020

On 5 October 2020, WHO and Denmark signed a multiyear agreement in which Denmark increased its flexible support to WHO.

As part of the agreement, Denmark's funding to WHO will exceed 140 million Danish kroner (over US$ 20 million) of flexible and thematic contributions for the 2020-2023 period.

Denmark's voluntary flexible contributions rise to 25 million Danish kroner (over US$ 3.9 million) per year. A further 10 million Danish kroner (over US$ 1.5 million) of thematic funds will be provided to WHO broadly earmarked towards the battle of non-communicable diseases.

The Danish government commits to doubling Denmark's voluntary core contribution to @WHO from 2021, subject to parliamentary approval, to take global responsibility in strengthening health for the most vulnerable. @RasmusPrehn #healthforall; Morten Jespersen (@DKAmb_UNGva) September 2, 2020

The Danish Government announced in September their commitment to double Denmark's voluntary core contribution to WHO from 2021.

Core voluntary funds are a key source of support that allows WHO to be agile, strategic, and work where and on what is needed most, "Denmark has long been an essential partner of WHO and a strong champion of health and human rights around the world. Thanks to their continued support, we look forward to stepping up our work to improve health all over the world, fight non-communicable diseases and continue our work on COVID-19," said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

According to its WHO agenda for 2020-2023, Denmark places a strong emphasis on gender equality and the rights of women and girls and includes sexual and reproductive health and rights as vital to improving health for all at all ages.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and chronic lung disease, are collectively responsible for almost 70% of all deaths worldwide. WHO provides leadership and the evidence base for international action on surveillance, prevention and control of NCDs. Denmark's donation will help WHO strengthen its work on NCDs.

In addition to non-communicable diseases, Denmark is committed to strengthening WHO's response to emergencies as well as universal health coverage and fighting antimicrobial resistance.