Poverty and Disease

At the Gates Foundation, we believe it's possible, and imperative , to invest in long-term, sustainable action, especially after two years of conflict, pandemic and polarization. This is an extremely fragile moment for the world. Some of the poorest countries face external debt distress. Rising inflation has affected virtually every nation, reducing countries' spending power and forcing tough financial trade-offs. An alarming number of people, particularly women, are hungry worldwide. Many countries are pulling back on development aid that helps strengthen health and food systems over the long term in low and middle income countries. Some have redirected funds from these priorities to address crises at home. Humanitarian aid is critical. Yet if short-term funding means neglecting long-term investment, health emergencies and food shortages will become even more frequent -- and more intense. Hunger, disease and inequity are problems without borders, and every sector has a role to play in solving them. Solutions can come from everywhere: from the most advanced labs and the most remote communities.