U.S. Releases $600 Million to Gavi Following Vaccine Reforms

The United States Department of State and the Department of Health and Human Services announced the release of $600 million in congressionally appropriated funding for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The funds, which represent approximately 13% to 15% of Gavi's annual budget, had been blocked for several months by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. due to safety concerns regarding thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative used in some vaccines.

To secure the funding, Gavi committed to transitioning to mercury-free alternatives for hepatitis B and pneumococcal vaccines and aligning with "Gold Standard Science." Additional required reforms include downsizing Gavi's headquarters in Geneva and ending the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines for routine immunization programs. While the U.S. expects to resume its position on the Gavi board, the administration specified that no government funds will be routed to the World Health Organization through the alliance.

These negotiations were directed by President Donald Trump and led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary Kennedy. The move continues a financial dispute between the Trump administration and the World Health Organization that began in 2020 and resumed when Trump suspended U.S. contributions upon starting his second term on January 20, 2025. Gavi CEO Sania Nishtar thanked the U.S. for the investment, noting it would help strengthen global defenses against outbreaks.