The Republic of Ireland has just announced that it will increase its contribution to the World Health Organization (WHO). It plans to multiply its involvement by four compared to its pre-pandemic commitment. The announcement was made today by Simon Coveney, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and has been welcomed by other European countries.
Ireland Commits to Contributing €9.5 Million to the WHO
A Strong Statement Supporting the Global Fight Against Coronavirus and Countering Donald Trump
In concrete terms, Ireland will provide €9.5 million to the World Health Organization. This significant amount aims to strengthen the global response to COVID-19.
This move is, in a way, a rebuke to U.S. President Donald Trump, who had announced just hours earlier that he would suspend support to the WHO. Trump criticized the organization for allegedly failing to anticipate the crisis adequately, focusing its aid on China, and contributing to downplaying the early situation with Beijing. These serious accusations sparked intense international controversy. Many world leaders condemned this “indefensible decision.”
Ireland shared this concern and responded promptly. The Irish government announced on Twitter its decision to increase its support to the WHO. The Minister for Foreign Affairs wrote:
The Republic of Ireland strongly supports the World Health Organization in its efforts to coordinate a global response to combat COVID-19. Many countries rely on the expertise of the United Nations and their ability to save lives. So many vulnerable populations depend on the WHO. It is shocking to deliberately undermine the funding and trust in such an organization. Now is the time for world leaders to save lives, not to divide and blame.
The Director-General of the World Health Organization has since thanked Mr. Coveney and the Irish people for their support, stating that such generosity will contribute to “a healthier and safer world.”
This is a new stance from Ireland, reaffirming its full commitment to the fight against coronavirus.
