A staff member from the World Health Organization (WHO) is working to raise funds through a social media campaign after the United States pulled out of the organization, a decision made by former President Donald Trump. The campaign, called “1 Dollar, 1 World,” aims to gather $1 billion to help mitigate the financial impact caused by the U.S. withdrawal. The funds will support the WHO’s efforts to combat chronic and emerging diseases around the world.
Tania Cernuschi, a WHO staff member with a decade of experience, has been actively involved in improving vaccine access. She conceived the fundraising idea after Trump’s announcement, which left her feeling frustrated and disappointed. She described the decision as unsettling, particularly because the funding cuts could cost lives. The $1 billion target is approximately equal to the amount the United States has contributed to the WHO’s budget over two years, based on historical data.
Since launching the campaign, Cernuschi has raised around $58,000, a small fraction of the goal. Early donors have largely come from senior WHO staff, including prominent epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove, who became a key figure during the COVID-19 pandemic, and individuals from wealthy countries such as Switzerland and the U.S. Cernuschi acknowledged that this trend could make the campaign appear as if it’s being funded by U.N. civil servants to protect their own salaries and programs. However, she emphasized that the work of the WHO is crucial for people who are not as privileged.
Global health consultant Tina Purnat pointed out that the campaign’s early donors, mostly from wealthier nations, could give the impression of a self-interested initiative. In response, Cernuschi explained that, while the staff may be privileged, their mission is to serve those who are less fortunate. She believes the WHO’s work is essential to the well-being of vulnerable populations around the world.
Cernuschi, a 46-year-old Italian with 25 years of experience in public health, has seen support for the campaign extend beyond wealthy nations. Donations have been received from countries such as Ukraine, India, and various parts of Africa. She shared a particularly touching message from an Indian woman who wrote, “You have an army behind you.” Cernuschi expressed deep appreciation for the message, feeling the solidarity and support from the global community.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has voiced his backing for Cernuschi’s campaign, expressing pride in her efforts. He noted that the WHO staff sees themselves as part of the solution to global health challenges and are committed to working for the greater good.
The “1 Dollar, 1 World” campaign is not only a response to the loss of U.S. funding but also an effort to build a broader, global coalition of support for the WHO’s vital work. The funds raised will help sustain the organization’s ability to address public health issues, including those related to pandemics, vaccine distribution, and disease prevention. Cernuschi’s initiative represents a significant grassroots effort to ensure that the WHO continues its mission, regardless of political shifts that might undermine its financial stability.
The success of this campaign will depend on the continued engagement of individuals from around the world, particularly those in countries with the means to contribute. Cernuschi remains hopeful that the campaign will gain momentum, driven by the collective desire to protect global health and support the WHO’s ongoing work.
