In a world where global health challenges continue to evolve, one disease is on the brink of eradication thanks to the power of partnership, innovation, and unwavering commitment. Polio—a disease that once paralyzed hundreds of thousands of children every year—is now endemic in only a handful of countries. And we’re closer than ever to making history by wiping it out for good.
This progress hasn’t happened by chance. It’s the result of tireless efforts, strategic investments, and game-changing collaborations. One such collaboration—the innovative financing partnership between the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Commission, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation—is proving that with the right tools and teamwork, we can achieve remarkable outcomes.
A Bold Investment in Global Health
At the heart of this partnership is a shared vision: a world free from polio and a future where health systems are strong enough to withstand new threats. Through innovative financing mechanisms, this alliance is enabling over 370 million children to be vaccinated against polio each year. That’s nearly half the children under the age of five on the planet, protected annually from a life-altering disease.
The partnership leverages blended finance, combining public and philanthropic funds in a way that maximizes impact while reducing financial risk. By doing so, it unlocks new resources to support the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), one of the largest and most successful public health campaigns in history.
Strengthening Health Systems for the Future
Beyond delivering vaccines, this initiative is helping to strengthen health infrastructure in vulnerable regions, especially in low-income countries. The systems and networks used to fight polio—like cold chain storage, disease surveillance, and community outreach—are also crucial for addressing other health crises, from measles outbreaks to emerging infectious diseases like COVID-19.
In effect, every dollar spent on polio eradication not only protects children today but also lays the groundwork for more resilient, responsive healthcare systems tomorrow. These systems can rapidly detect and respond to new threats, reducing the risk of future pandemics and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight for global health equity.
A Collective Effort with Global Impact
The collaboration between the EIB, the European Commission, and the Gates Foundation highlights the importance of innovative public-private partnerships in tackling global challenges. By aligning resources, expertise, and political will, this partnership is accelerating progress and inspiring others to join the cause.
Ending polio is within reach—but it requires sustained commitment. Thanks to this financing partnership, the world is not only staying the course but moving forward with renewed momentum.
Join the Movement to #EndPolio
As we mark the strides made through this extraordinary alliance, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved—from global leaders to healthcare workers on the ground. Your support is bringing us closer to a historic milestone and helping build a healthier, more secure world for future generations.
The fight to end polio is one of humanity’s greatest public health endeavors—and we’re almost there. Together, let’s finish the job. Let’s end polio, strengthen health systems, and prepare for a safer tomorrow.
Thank you for standing with us in the fight to #EndPolio.
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