Why I'm Still Optimistic about Global Health : Shared by Niloufar Pourzand

 Why I’m Still Optimistic About Global Health

Bill Gates
TIME / LinkedIn, September 23, 2025
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Summary
Bill Gates argues that despite shrinking budgets for global health, the world has achieved remarkable progress: child mortality has been halved since 2000, and with continued investment and innovation, deaths could be halved again over the next 20 years. Advances in malaria prevention, maternal vaccines, and long-acting HIV treatments show that eradication of major diseases is within reach. Gates stresses that donor countries must sustain or increase funding, while low-income nations need debt relief and stronger domestic prioritization of health. He highlights the Global Fund’s lifesaving impact and pledges $912 million from the Gates Foundation over the next three years. For Gates, the paradox of the moment is clear: funding is shrinking while science is accelerating—but with leadership and commitment, the world can ensure every child grows up healthy.

Quotes

• “Where you live shouldn’t determine if you live.”

• “If the world invests in child health and scales lifesaving innovations, we could cut child deaths in half again over the next 20 years.”

• “Yes, humanity is at a crossroads. But I’m betting on humanity.”