The funding of the World Health Organization, as it works nowadays, is made up of more than 80% of voluntary contributions destined for specific programs. These contributions not only come from United Nations member countries, as was the case originally, but also from foundations, agencies, individuals or companies —including pharmaceuticals—, which then have the power to decide on the proposed initiatives. In other words, these are contributions whose destination is directed by the donor, and the WHO cannot use these funds according to its needs or criteria. It seems practically impossible for a multilateral organization to manage to maintain the independence needed by a reality like the current one regarding the latest pandemic.

Catherine Dumont is an author and historian. Named as Distinguished Professor of American Studies and History, her research interests include the construction of racial identity and class structures.