WHO: healthcare not accessible to half of the world’s population

Fragile regions of the world lag behind when it comes to medical needs

Every day we hear stories of people unable to access healthcare. Why? Fragility, armed conflict and recurring natural disasters are the main factors contributing to more than two-billion people living in nations where healthcare systems often are not prioritized, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

While countries most affected aren’t always the poorest, the ones with the weakest health systems are in conflict zones, said Dr. Peter Salama, WHO deputy director-general for emergency preparedness and response, at the time of a panel on global health and security last year.

“People often think once the conflict is over then health systems start to rebuild,” said Natalie Page, health advisor with Medair, a non-profit working in both South Sudan and DRC. “It takes years of investment to rebuild health systems. You can’t churn out midwives or doctors overnight.”

At Christian Children’s Fund of Canada, we build health centres and provide health supplies to fill gaps above what governments can provide. We support pre-natal care and safe deliveries through health-education sessions and training health workers, among other activities.

Help provide emergency medical aid to children today.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Inspiring Stories

July 2025

Post G7 Aftermath: Why we Need to Keep Pushing for...

Why Canada must lead on global education: a call for bold action post-G7 to prevent conflict, foster peace, and invest in children’s futures.

July 2025

What does freedom mean?

This Nelson Mandela Day, discover what freedom means through the eyes of a child—and why education is the most powerful tool to unlock it.

June 2025

Children Believe’s Canadian journey

Celebrate Canada Day with Children Believe as we honour our Canadian roots, generous supporters, and a legacy of compassion creating change worldwide.