The Future of Combatting Neglected Tropical Diseases

The financing of programs to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) faces significant challenges. Recent developments in the United States, particularly the dissolution of United States Agency for International Development (USAID), have had serious consequences for NTD programs worldwide.

Research into new drugs, diagnostics, and interventions has been curtailed, and clinical trials abruptly halted. Health authorities and civil society organizations in endemic countries struggle to sustain essential health programs, while donated medicines from the private sector no longer reliably reach those in need. Compounding these issues, other countries are also reducing or eliminating international cooperation and health programs, and World Health Organization (WHO) funding faces dramatic cuts. As a result, the WHO roadmap for NTDs encounters considerable obstacles, and the window of opportunity to achieve its 2030 goals is narrowing.

This discussion brings together high-level experts from research, civil society, and the private sector to develop practical solutions for sustainable financing and the long-term success of NTD efforts.