• The Trump administration will halt funding for Gavi, a key global health organization providing vaccines to low-income countries.
  • The move aligns with broader cuts to foreign aid and could jeopardize immunization efforts for millions of children.
  • Gavi faces a $9 billion replenishment challenge as it seeks to fund its next five-year strategy.

U.S. Withdraws from Global Vaccine Initiative

The Trump administration has notified Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, that it will terminate U.S. financial support for the organization, according to people familiar with the matter. The decision comes as part of the administration's sweeping reductions to foreign aid budgets and infectious disease research funding.

Gavi, which has immunized over 1.1 billion children since its founding in 2000, now faces a significant funding gap. The U.S. contributed 12% of Gavi's overall funding and 15% of government donations, making it one of the organization's largest donors. The Biden administration had previously pledged $1.58 billion over five years in 2024.

Impact on Global Immunization Efforts

Without U.S. support, Gavi's ability to meet its 2026-2030 target of vaccinating 500 million children—potentially saving 8 million lives—could be compromised. The organization recently deferred its June 2025 pledging summit as it seeks $9 billion in replenishment funding.

"This decision creates immediate uncertainty for immunization programs in the world's poorest countries," said a Gavi official who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of ongoing discussions. Attempts to reach White House officials for comment were unsuccessful.

Broader Foreign Policy Shift

The move reflects the administration's "America First" approach, which has included slashing global health budgets and reducing U.S. participation in multilateral initiatives. Bill Gates has reportedly warned the administration that his foundation cannot single-handedly fill the resulting funding gaps.

Gavi's economic impact has been substantial, generating $52 billion in benefits for supported countries since 2021 through its vaccination programs. The organization works with partners including WHO, UNICEF, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to deliver vaccines in low- and middle-income nations.