Global Fund replenishment: the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) must announce its pledge before the next Board Meeting
Statement from 46 Organizations
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025
As the world faces unprecedented health challenges, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is entering a critical phase marked by an accelerating health crisis. The region is experiencing the fastest-growing HIV epidemic globally, alongside a rising burden of tuberculosis and fragile health systems in several neighboring countries. These are not distant threats — they directly affect the health, stability, and economic security of the GCC states, given the deep interconnections created by labor mobility, trade, and cultural and religious exchanges.
GCC National Visions: Strong Foundations for Health Leadership
The Gulf Cooperation Council countries have demonstrated exceptional capacity to combine economic development, innovation, and effective diplomacy through long-term strategic visions. Examples include:
- Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Centennial 2071, both placing health as a central national priority.
- Kuwait Vision 2035, which underscores the need for high-quality health services.
- Oman Vision 2040, identifying health as a national pillar.
- Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, highlighting accessible and equitable healthcare.
- Qatar’s National Health Strategy 2024–2030 – “Health for All”, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
These frameworks reflect a clear, shared ambition to build strong, resilient, and inclusive health systems.
A Strategic Opportunity: GCC Leadership in the Global Fund’s 8th Replenishment
The forthcoming 8th Replenishment of the Global Fund offers GCC states a historic opportunity:
- to transition from being donors to becoming foundational leaders in global health;
- to advance their diplomatic influence through health diplomacy;
- and to consolidate their position at the forefront of international cooperation and regional security.
Why Supporting the Global Fund Is a Strategic Investment for GCC Countries
- Containing Epidemics at the Source
Preventing HIV and TB from spreading in neighboring countries reduces direct risk for GCC populations and avoids significant future health expenditures. - Strengthening Regional Health Systems
Global Fund investments reinforce laboratories, medicine supply chains, and health workforce capacity — all essential to withstand future crises. - Enhancing Social and Economic Stability
Healthier communities ensure the continuity of labor markets, trade flows, and critical supply chains upon which GCC economies depend.
The Global Fund offers one of the highest returns on investment in global health — every dollar invested generates $19 in health and economic benefits. A GCC contribution that is at least 15% higher than previous pledges would support sustainable prosperity while expanding GCC global influence.
A Call to Action: Priorities for GCC Leadership in the Global Fund’s 8th Replenishment
- Announce ambitious and immediate financial commitments
Send a strong signal of confidence by pledging early and exploring innovative financing mechanisms such as Debt2Health. - Strengthen GCC influence in Global Fund governance
Play a decisive role in shaping policies and funding approaches that reflect the realities and needs of the MENA region. - Integrate health security into national strategic priorities
Align Global Fund investments with national security goals and promote regional collaboration for stronger health systems. - Prioritize marginalized and underserved populations
Ensure that investments address the needs of key populations and vulnerable communities, promoting equity and human rights. - Accelerate access to health innovations
Support cutting-edge diagnostics, digital tools, and prevention technologies, consistent with GCC visions for a knowledge-based, innovative future.
The Time for Bold Leadership Is Now
The GCC is uniquely positioned to drive transformative impact in global health. A strategic commitment to the Global Fund’s 8th Replenishment would protect populations, enhance international standing, and secure regional stability.
Failing to act now will heighten health, economic, and social risks.
Choosing leadership today will build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future for all.
