The Contingency Fund for Emergencies (CFE) gives WHO the resources to quickly mount an effective response to disease outbreaks and humanitarian crises with health consequences. The ability to respond quickly before other donor funding is mobilized can stop a health emergency from spiralling out of control, saving resources and lives.

The Contingency Fund for Emergencies was established in 2015 at the 68th World Health Assembly:

Ebola virus disease outbreak and follow-up to the special session of the Executive Board on Ebola: options for a contingency fund to support WHO's emergency response capacity - May 2015

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The CFE provides funding during the critical gap between the moment the need for an emergency response is identified and the point at which funds from other mechanisms can be released. The CFE’s capacity to release funds (in an initial tranche of up to US$ 500 000) within 24 hours of an emergency request sets it apart from other complementary financing which may have different funding criteria and slower disbursement cycles.

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The generosity of our resource partners makes the CFE a fast and flexible financing instrument. Contributions to the CFE are pooled and, crucially, are flexible rather than being earmarked for specific activities. This enables the CFE to rapidly fund the initial response to the broadest possible range of health emergencies. Accountability is ensured through adherence to the Organization’s financial rules and regulations, including standard financial reporting. Any unspent funds are returned to the CFE.

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