China Pledges $500M to WHO Filling US Funding Void

China has pledged $500 million in financial support to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next five years, positioning itself to replace the United States as the group's top state donor amid Washington's retreat from international cooperation. Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong emphasized that the contribution aims to counteract "unilateralism" and strengthen multilateralism in global health governance. The funding package includes increased assessed contributions, voluntary donations, and support for projects through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, with the exact allocation to be determined jointly by China and the WHO. This move reflects Beijing's broader strategy to expand its global influence and leadership role in international institutions, especially as the WHO faces significant funding challenges following U.S. withdrawal and budget cuts. China's increased support coincides with the WHO revising down its 2026-2027 budget due to financial difficulties caused by the U.S. decision, and with new budget plans to raise mandatory fees for member states. Overall, China's pledge signals its intent to be a responsible global leader in health and beyond, while highlighting tensions between Beijing's multilateral approach and Washington's recent isolationism.