US Cuts Gavi Funding: Global Vaccine Crisis & Impact Explained

The US-Gavi Funding Fallout: Key Insights
What Triggered the Crisis?
US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the withdrawal of American funding from Gavi, the Global Vaccine Alliance. Kennedy accused Gavi of “ignoring science” and suppressing “dissenting views” during COVID-19. This move jeopardizes immunisation programs for diseases like malaria and Ebola.

Why Gavi Matters
Gavi is a public-private partnership involving WHO, UNICEF, the Gates Foundation, and the World Bank. Since 2001, it has:
Saved 18 million lives through low-cost vaccines.
Halved childhood mortality in vulnerable regions.
The US was a top donor, pledging $1 billion until 2030. Withdrawal risks:
◾ Delayed vaccine delivery to 50+ countries.
◾ Funding gaps for outbreak responses (e.g., Ebola).

The Safety Debate
Kennedy controversially questioned the safety of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccines. While some studies noted higher death rates in vaccinated children, agencies like WHO and experts like Dr. Paul Offit (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia) assert:
No evidence links vaccines to these deaths.
DTP vaccines remain vital for disease prevention.

Global Ripple Effects
India relies on Gavi for affordable vaccines and outbreak support. US withdrawal could:
Strain India’s health budget if vaccine costs rise.
Undermine global health security, affecting trade and travel.

Why This Matters for Your Exams
This news is crucial for SSC, PSC, UPSC, and other exams due to its direct links to:
Prelims Syllabus: Current events of national/international importance.
Mains Syllabus (GS-II): Impact of developed nations’ policies on India’s interests (e.g., health security, vaccine access).
Understanding such topics builds analytical skills for essay writing and interviews.

Sample Questions for Exam Practice
Q: How has Gavi contributed to global health since 2001?
*A: Gavi’s vaccination programs saved 18 million lives and cut childhood mortality by 50% in low-income countries.*
Q: Why did the US halt funding to Gavi?
*A: US Health Secretary RFK Jr. accused Gavi of “ignoring science” and silencing vaccine safety concerns during COVID-19.*
Q: Which organisations partner with Gavi?
A: WHO, UNICEF, the Gates Foundation, and the World Bank.
Q: What is the potential impact of US withdrawal on India?
A: Increased vaccine costs and reduced support during health emergencies.
Q: Critically examine the role of public-private partnerships in global health.
A: They enable resource-sharing but face risks if donors withdraw (e.g., disrupted disease prevention).


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