The World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed a generous contribution of US$3.49 million from the Novo Nordisk Foundation to strengthen emergency health services for millions of people affected by the protracted crisis in Syria. The funding will bolster trauma care, reinforce disease surveillance and outbreak response, and improve access to essential healthcare in one of the world’s most complex humanitarian emergencies.

“We are deeply grateful to the Novo Nordisk Foundation for their timely contribution,” said Christina Bethke, Acting WHO Representative in Syria. “This support comes at a pivotal moment and will enable WHO to deliver life-saving health services and reach underserved and vulnerable populations at a time when Syria’s health system is under tremendous strain.”

Despite WHO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring health for all, an urgent funding gap of US$114 million—representing 81% of its Syria appeal—threatens the delivery of life-saving medical assistance.