Despite significant setbacks in international aid, advancements in vaccine strategies and disease control offered glimmers of hope for global health in 2025. The year saw a major restructuring of U.S. foreign assistance with the dissolution of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and subsequent budget cuts and freezes, impacting numerous global health initiatives. These changes, coupled with similar funding reductions from countries like France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, created a challenging environment for organizations working to combat disease and improve healthcare access in developing nations.

However, progress was made in specific areas. Notably, a revised strategy for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination gained traction in countries like Pakistan. Years of testing demonstrated that a single dose of the HPV vaccine is highly effective for younger girls, while older girls can benefit from two doses. This shift from the traditional three-dose regimen promises to simplify vaccine delivery and improve coverage rates, particularly in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.

The global health landscape in 2025 was further complicated by shifting geopolitical priorities and economic pressures. The reduction in funding from traditional donor nations forced many international organizations to re-evaluate their programs and seek alternative funding sources. The impact of these changes was felt most acutely in programs focused on maternal and child health, as well as those providing free healthcare services in underserved communities. While the long-term consequences of these funding cuts remain to be seen, experts expressed concern about the potential for reversals in progress made in recent decades in combating infectious diseases and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.