Summary
A report by the Gates Foundation projects a rise in child deaths before age five for the first time this century. This increase is linked to reduced global funding for health initiatives. The report highlights the importance of investing in primary health care and vaccines to prevent child deaths.
Key Facts
- The Gates Foundation report predicts an increase in child deaths under age five.
- Global development assistance for health has decreased significantly.
- In 2024, 4.6 million children died before their fifth birthday, and this number is expected to rise to 4.8 million.
- Cuts in global health funding could lead to 12-16 million more child deaths by 2045.
- The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) was shut down by President Trump's administration, impacting foreign aid.
- USAID used to be a major provider of humanitarian aid, distributing $72 billion in 2023.
- Other countries like Britain and Germany have also reduced international aid.
- The report suggests investing less than $100 per person per year in primary health care and vaccines to significantly reduce child deaths.
