In a startling address, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the United States would withdraw its support from Gavi, the global vaccination alliance, citing concerns over vaccine safety and transparency.
Kennedy Vows to Cut U.S. Funding for Gavi Over Vaccine Safety Concerns
Kennedy Vows to Cut U.S. Funding for Gavi Over Vaccine Safety Concerns
In a provocative announcement, the U.S. Health Secretary criticized Gavi’s practices and pledged to withdraw significant financial support.
Kennedy’s comments have sparked a significant backlash from Gavi leaders, who maintain their commitment to science and child health around the world.
June 25, 2025 – In a striking move, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. condemned the global vaccine alliance Gavi for allegedly prioritizing public relations over scientific integrity during a pre-recorded video message shared with health ministers in Brussels. He accused Gavi of neglecting vaccine safety amidst their push for universal immunization and declared that the U.S. would not honor a $1.2 billion funding commitment previously made by the Biden administration unless substantial changes are made in Gavi's operational approach.
"We cannot proceed with financial support for an organization that views vaccine safety issues merely as a public relations challenge," Kennedy stated, criticizing the organization for its selective interpretation of scientific evidence in vaccination debates. This announcement comes as Gavi seeks to raise funds to support vaccination programs for children in impoverished nations.
In response, Gavi’s leadership refuted Kennedy's allegations, asserting that their vaccine procurement strategies are based on the best scientific evidence available. The disagreement highlights a growing tension in the global health community regarding vaccine policies and public trust, raising questions about the future of international vaccine funding and collaboration.
June 25, 2025 – In a striking move, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. condemned the global vaccine alliance Gavi for allegedly prioritizing public relations over scientific integrity during a pre-recorded video message shared with health ministers in Brussels. He accused Gavi of neglecting vaccine safety amidst their push for universal immunization and declared that the U.S. would not honor a $1.2 billion funding commitment previously made by the Biden administration unless substantial changes are made in Gavi's operational approach.
"We cannot proceed with financial support for an organization that views vaccine safety issues merely as a public relations challenge," Kennedy stated, criticizing the organization for its selective interpretation of scientific evidence in vaccination debates. This announcement comes as Gavi seeks to raise funds to support vaccination programs for children in impoverished nations.
In response, Gavi’s leadership refuted Kennedy's allegations, asserting that their vaccine procurement strategies are based on the best scientific evidence available. The disagreement highlights a growing tension in the global health community regarding vaccine policies and public trust, raising questions about the future of international vaccine funding and collaboration.
