Menu

A new World Bank report reveals that investments remain insufficient in developing countries to fund essential health services, which are critical for saving lives, creating jobs, and driving growth.

The report, “At a Crossroads: Prospects for Government Health Financing Amidst Declining Aid”, finds that in 2024, combined government and donor spending on health averaged just $17 per capita in low-income countries – less than one-third of the $60 estimated minimum needed to deliver a basic package of essential services. In lower-middle-income countries, that figure was $47, barely half the benchmark of $90.

Despite growing needs, spending has stagnated in real terms since 2018, with the priority for health falling in many countries, the World Bank said, noting that the implications are stark for health, job creation, and growth.

The report outlines three priorities for action, namely more efficient use of resources, an increase in the share of public spending on health, and expansion of fiscal space through broader macro-fiscal reforms.

“Continued collaboration will be essential among governments, partners, and donors to ensure health financing strategies are responsive to current realities, while remaining anchored in long-term ambitions,” the World Bank said. “The upcoming Universal Health Coverage (UHC) High-level Forum on December 6 in Tokyo will be a pivotal moment to accelerate global progress toward health for all.”

Hosted by the Government of Japan and co-convened by the World Bank Group and the World Health Organisation, the forum will bring together global leaders to assess progress and commit to stronger, more equitable health systems.