The World Health Assembly opened Monday amid what is described as the largest financial crisis in the WHO's history, following the withdrawal of the United States, its largest donor, and a decline in contributions from several member states. The assembly, the WHO's highest decision-making body, is scheduled to continue through May 27 in Geneva under the theme "One World for Health."Member states are expected to adopt the first international agreement to combat pandemics during the 78th session of the Assembly, which is also discussing the future of the organization amid financial pressures that threaten its ability to perform its vital tasks in the areas of health emergencies, disease control, and strengthening health systems.This session comes amid a financial deficit exceeding $1.7 billion in the organization's budget for the period 2026-2027, which prompted it to announce a package of unprecedented measures that included reducing the proposed budget by 22 percent, from $5.3 billion to $4.2 billion, reducing the number of departments from 76 to 34, reducing the number of senior staff from 14 to seven employees, and reducing salariesby 25 percent, the closure of some offices in high-income countries, the relocation of others to lower-cost locations, and the implementation of an early retirement program. The organization previously stated that these steps are necessary to ensure the continuity of essential health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, amid the extremely complex financial crisis.During its first week, the Assembly session, which is being held with the participation of representatives of the organization's member states and international partners, will discuss several key issues, including sustainable financing for the organization and the adoption of a program budget for the coming years, in addition to global health issues such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, health security, and health workforce development.