The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. With a budget of over $2 billion, the WHO relies on financial support from various sources to carry out its mission. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the financial support that the WHO receives and how it supports the organization’s mission. From voluntary contributions to assessed contributions, this article will explore the various ways in which the WHO is funded and how these funds are used to improve global health. So, let’s dive in and understand the mission of the World Health Organization and the financial support that makes it possible.
The Role of the World Health Organization (WHO)
Overview of the WHO’s Mission
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) that was established in 1948. Its mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. The WHO’s mission is guided by its constitution, which states that the organization’s objective is to attain “the highest possible level of health for all people.” The WHO works towards this objective by collaborating with governments, NGOs, and other partners to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
The WHO’s mission is further outlined in its strategic plan, which provides a framework for the organization’s work over a five-year period. The plan focuses on six key areas:
- Health systems: The WHO works to strengthen health systems and improve access to essential health services, with a focus on maternal and child health, infectious diseases, and noncommunicable diseases.
- Promoting health: The WHO works to promote health and well-being through various initiatives, including vaccination campaigns, health education, and disease prevention programs.
- Keeping the world safe: The WHO works to prevent and control the spread of diseases, including Ebola, HIV/AIDS, and polio, and to address the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.
- Serving the vulnerable: The WHO works to improve the health of vulnerable populations, including women and children, refugees, and people living in humanitarian crises.
- Knowledge sharing: The WHO works to share knowledge and expertise with countries and partners to support evidence-based decision-making and improve health outcomes.
- Financing: The WHO works to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to achieve the organization’s mission and goals.
The WHO’s mission is further outlined in its constitution, which states that the organization’s objective is to attain “the highest possible level of health for all people.” The WHO works towards this objective by collaborating with governments, NGOs, and other partners to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
History and Significance of the WHO
Establishment and Early Years
The World Health Organization (WHO) was founded in 1948 as a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) with the primary goal of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. It was established after the Second World War to provide a platform for countries to collaborate on health matters, especially in addressing the challenges that arose from the war.
Growth and Expansion
Over the years, the WHO has grown in size and influence, expanding its mission to encompass a broader range of health issues, including the control of infectious diseases, the promotion of maternal and child health, and the prevention of non-communicable diseases. Today, the organization has 194 member states and six regional offices, with a staff of over 7,000 people working in more than 150 countries.
Global Impact
The WHO has had a significant impact on global health, leading efforts to eradicate smallpox, control the spread of HIV/AIDS, and provide access to essential medicines for millions of people around the world. The organization has also played a key role in shaping international health policy, setting standards for health care, and providing technical assistance to countries in need.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its many accomplishments, the WHO has faced criticism over the years, particularly regarding its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have questioned the organization’s handling of the crisis, citing its initial slow response and the perception that it was too closely aligned with China. The organization has also faced challenges in addressing health crises in various parts of the world, such as the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, due to funding shortages and bureaucratic hurdles.
In conclusion, the WHO has a rich history and has played a vital role in promoting health and well-being around the world. However, the organization faces ongoing challenges and criticisms, which underscore the need for continued support and reform to ensure that it can effectively fulfill its mission in the years to come.
Goals and Objectives of the WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) is an international organization that was established in 1948 with the aim of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. Its goals and objectives are to provide leadership on matters concerning health, shaping the global health agenda, and setting the norms and standards for health.
The WHO has several objectives, including:
- Providing technical assistance to countries to improve their health systems
- Promoting the development of comprehensive health services
- Encouraging research into disease control and prevention
- Developing partnerships with other organizations to improve global health
- Advocating for the health of vulnerable populations
- Promoting health through the life-cycle approach
- Fostering inter-country cooperation on health matters
- Strengthening health systems in countries
- Providing emergency assistance in the event of health crises
These objectives are pursued through a range of activities, including the development of health policies, the provision of technical assistance, the promotion of research, and the development of partnerships with other organizations. The WHO also works to improve access to essential medicines and vaccines, promote health education, and support the development of health infrastructure in countries around the world.
The WHO’s goals and objectives are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 global goals adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, with the aim of ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring that all people
Global Health Strategies and Policies
The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in shaping global health strategies and policies. It serves as a platform for countries to collaborate and develop coordinated approaches to address pressing health challenges. The organization’s efforts are guided by its constitution, which emphasizes the importance of promoting health, keeping the world informed, and serving as a center for collaboration in addressing international health matters.
In recent years, the WHO has focused on several key areas to improve global health outcomes. These include:
- Universal health coverage: Ensuring that all individuals and communities have access to essential health services, regardless of their financial status or geographic location.
- Health and well-being: Promoting physical and mental well-being by addressing the social, economic, and environmental determinants of health.
- Disease control and prevention: Working to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases, as well as noncommunicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
- Health systems: Strengthening health systems to improve access to quality care and enhance the overall performance of health services.
To achieve these goals, the WHO relies on a diverse range of funding sources, including voluntary contributions from member states, private donors, and partnerships with international organizations. This financial support enables the organization to carry out its mission and help shape the future of global health.
Financial Support for the WHO
Funding Sources for the WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies on a diverse range of funding sources to support its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. The organization’s financial support comes from various donors, including governments, private donors, foundations, and other partners. The funding received is crucial for the WHO to carry out its operations, including disease control, emergency response, health system strengthening, and promoting health equity.
The major sources of funding for the WHO include:
- Member States Contributions:
Member States contribute to the WHO through assessed and voluntary contributions. Assessed contributions are based on a member’s ability to pay, while voluntary contributions are made on a voluntary basis. Member States’ contributions account for the largest share of the WHO’s budget, and these funds are used to support the organization’s core functions. - Voluntary Contributions:
Voluntary contributions are made by governments, private donors, foundations, and other partners who support the WHO’s work. These contributions are used to support specific programs and initiatives that align with the donor’s interests and priorities. - Specialized Agencies:
The WHO collaborates with specialized agencies such as the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Bank to support health-related initiatives. These agencies provide technical assistance, funding, and expertise to support the WHO’s work. - Private Partnerships:
The WHO also partners with private sector organizations, including pharmaceutical companies, to support health initiatives. These partnerships provide funding and expertise to support the WHO’s work in areas such as vaccine development, disease control, and health system strengthening. - Research Grants:
The WHO also receives research grants from various partners, including governments, foundations, and private donors. These grants support research in areas such as disease control, health system strengthening, and health equity.
In conclusion, the WHO relies on a diverse range of funding sources to support its mission. The organization’s funding comes from member states, voluntary contributions, specialized agencies, private partnerships, and research grants. These funds are crucial for the WHO to carry out its operations and promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
Budget Allocation and Management
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies heavily on financial support from various sources to carry out its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. One of the key aspects of the WHO’s financial management is the allocation and management of its budget. This section will provide a comprehensive overview of the WHO’s budget allocation and management process.
Sources of Funding
The WHO’s budget is primarily funded by its member states, which contribute based on their gross national income. Other sources of funding include private donors, foundations, and partnerships with international organizations. The WHO also generates revenue through its programs and services, such as the sale of publications and the provision of technical assistance.
Budget Allocation
The WHO’s budget is allocated based on its strategic priorities, which are set by its member states. The budget is divided into various program areas, including health systems, disease control, and health promotion. Within each program area, the budget is further allocated to specific projects and initiatives.
Budget Management
The WHO’s budget is managed by its Finance Department, which is responsible for ensuring that resources are used efficiently and effectively. The Finance Department monitors the budget on a regular basis and makes adjustments as necessary to ensure that the WHO’s programs and activities are fully funded.
Challenges
One of the main challenges facing the WHO’s budget allocation and management is the unequal distribution of resources among its member states. Some member states contribute more than others, which can create disparities in the allocation of resources. Additionally, the WHO must often navigate complex political and economic landscapes when seeking funding from donor countries and organizations.
In conclusion, the WHO’s budget allocation and management process is critical to the organization’s ability to carry out its mission. By ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively, the WHO can continue to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies heavily on partnerships and collaborations with various stakeholders to achieve its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. These partnerships play a crucial role in the organization’s ability to implement its programs and achieve its goals. In this section, we will explore the various partnerships and collaborations that the WHO has established to support its mission.
Government Partnerships
Governments are one of the primary partners of the WHO. The organization works closely with national governments to develop policies and programs that promote health and well-being. The WHO provides technical assistance and guidance to governments to help them strengthen their health systems and improve the health of their populations.
Private Sector Partnerships
The WHO also collaborates with the private sector to promote health and well-being. The organization works with companies in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and healthcare industries to develop new treatments and therapies for diseases. The WHO also partners with private companies to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
The WHO works closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to promote health and well-being. NGOs play a critical role in implementing the organization’s programs and reaching vulnerable populations. The WHO collaborates with NGOs to provide health services to refugees, displaced persons, and other vulnerable populations.
Academic Institutions
The WHO also partners with academic institutions to promote health and well-being. The organization collaborates with universities and research centers to conduct research on health issues and develop new treatments and therapies for diseases. The WHO also works with academic institutions to provide training and education to health professionals and other stakeholders.
International Organizations
The WHO collaborates with international organizations to promote health and well-being. The organization works with organizations such as the United Nations (UN), the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to promote health policies and programs at the global level. The WHO also collaborates with international organizations to address global health challenges such as pandemics and climate change.
In conclusion, partnerships and collaborations are essential to the WHO’s mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. The organization works closely with governments, the private sector, NGOs, academic institutions, and international organizations to achieve its goals and implement its programs. These partnerships play a crucial role in the WHO’s ability to promote health and well-being and address global health challenges.
Donor Countries and Organizations
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies heavily on voluntary contributions from member states, private donors, and other organizations to fund its operations. In 2020, the WHO received a total of $2.7 billion in assessed and voluntary contributions from various donor countries and organizations. The United States is the largest contributor to the WHO, providing over 15% of the organization’s budget. Other major donor countries and organizations include the European Union, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Gavi Alliance.
Voluntary contributions to the WHO are made on a two-year basis and are subject to annual negotiation. Member states are encouraged to make contributions based on their capacity to do so, with the goal of ensuring that all member states contribute to the organization’s work. In addition to providing financial support, donor countries and organizations also play a critical role in shaping the WHO’s work through their participation in decision-making bodies and technical advisory groups.
It is worth noting that the WHO’s funding has come under scrutiny in recent years, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some countries have called for reforms to the organization’s funding model, including a shift towards more assessed contributions and greater transparency in the allocation of funds. Despite these challenges, the WHO remains committed to its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable.
Challenges and Criticisms of WHO Funding
Despite the various sources of funding that the World Health Organization (WHO) receives, there are still challenges and criticisms associated with its financial support. Some of these challenges and criticisms include:
Dependence on Member States
The WHO is heavily dependent on funding from its Member States, which can lead to a situation where the organization is beholden to the interests of these states. This can result in conflicts of interest and compromise the WHO’s ability to make objective decisions.
Donor Fatigue
The WHO relies heavily on voluntary contributions from donor countries and organizations. However, there is a risk of donor fatigue, where donors become less willing or able to contribute to the organization over time. This can result in a lack of funding for critical programs and initiatives.
Funding Inequities
There are significant inequities in the distribution of funding within the WHO. Some Member States contribute much more than others, resulting in an uneven distribution of resources. This can limit the WHO’s ability to respond effectively to global health crises, as it may not have the resources necessary to provide support to all Member States equally.
Political Influence
The WHO is an intergovernmental organization, which means that it is subject to political influence from its Member States. This can lead to situations where the organization’s funding is directed towards initiatives that align with the political interests of certain Member States, rather than those that are most needed.
Inadequate Funding
Despite the critical role that the WHO plays in global health, its funding is often inadequate to meet the demands of its programs and initiatives. This can result in a lack of resources for critical programs, such as disease surveillance and outbreak response.
Overall, the challenges and criticisms associated with the WHO’s funding underscore the need for a more sustainable and equitable funding model that can support the organization’s critical work in promoting global health and well-being.
Impact of Financial Support on the WHO’s Mission
Effectiveness of WHO Programs and Initiatives
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies heavily on financial support from its member states and other partners to carry out its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. One of the key ways in which the WHO uses its financial support is by implementing programs and initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of people around the world.
Vaccination Initiatives
One of the most effective programs implemented by the WHO is its vaccination initiatives. The organization works with member states to provide access to life-saving vaccines for children and adults in need. The WHO also provides technical assistance and support to countries to strengthen their vaccination programs and ensure that they are reaching the most vulnerable populations.
Nutrition Programs
Another important initiative implemented by the WHO is its nutrition programs. The organization works with member states to promote healthy diets and lifestyles, and to reduce malnutrition and other diet-related diseases. The WHO also provides technical assistance and support to countries to strengthen their nutrition programs and ensure that they are reaching the most vulnerable populations.
Health Systems Strengthening
The WHO also works with member states to strengthen their health systems, including providing technical assistance and support to countries to improve access to health care, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. The organization also supports efforts to build stronger health workforces, improve health information systems, and promote the use of evidence-based practices in health care.
Other Initiatives
In addition to these programs, the WHO also implements a wide range of other initiatives aimed at improving global health. These include initiatives focused on noncommunicable diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, as well as initiatives focused on improving maternal and child health, promoting mental health, and reducing the spread of infectious diseases.
Overall, the WHO’s programs and initiatives have been shown to be highly effective in improving global health and well-being. The organization’s ability to carry out its mission, however, is heavily dependent on the financial support it receives from its member states and other partners.
Success Stories and Achievements
Throughout its history, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been able to achieve several significant successes, thanks to the financial support it receives from various sources. Here are some notable examples:
Eradication of Smallpox
One of the most significant achievements of the WHO was the eradication of smallpox in 1980. The organization spearheaded a global vaccination campaign that helped to eliminate the disease, which had been a major killer for centuries. The success of this campaign was made possible by the financial support of donor countries, as well as the collaboration of national governments, international organizations, and local communities.
Polio Eradication Initiative
Another success story is the Polio Eradication Initiative, which was launched in 1988. The initiative aimed to eradicate polio worldwide, and it has been highly successful in reducing the number of cases of the disease. The initiative received significant financial support from donor countries, as well as from private philanthropists like Bill Gates. The efforts of the WHO and its partners have brought the world to the brink of eradicating polio, and the organization continues to work towards achieving this goal.
HIV/AIDS Treatment and Prevention
The WHO has also made significant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Through its efforts to promote treatment and prevention, the organization has helped to reduce the number of new infections and deaths from the disease. The financial support provided by donor countries and international organizations has been crucial in enabling the WHO to scale up its efforts and provide life-saving treatment to millions of people living with HIV/AIDS.
Emergency Response to Health Crises
Financial support has also enabled the WHO to respond effectively to health crises around the world. The organization has played a key role in responding to outbreaks of Ebola, Zika, and other diseases. The financial support provided by donor countries and international organizations has allowed the WHO to mobilize resources quickly and effectively, and to provide critical support to affected communities.
In conclusion, the financial support provided to the WHO has been instrumental in enabling the organization to achieve several significant successes in promoting global health. From the eradication of smallpox to the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO has demonstrated its ability to lead and coordinate global efforts to improve health outcomes.
Future Opportunities and Challenges
As the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to address the evolving health challenges of the 21st century, the role of financial support in shaping its mission becomes increasingly important. The future opportunities and challenges surrounding the WHO’s financial support can be explored through several key areas.
Strengthening National Health Systems
One of the primary opportunities for the WHO lies in strengthening national health systems. Financial support can be used to bolster healthcare infrastructure, train healthcare professionals, and improve access to essential medicines and health services. By investing in national health systems, the WHO can help build resilient and sustainable healthcare systems that are better equipped to respond to health crises and promote the overall health and well-being of populations.
Global Health Security
Another opportunity for the WHO’s financial support is in global health security. In the face of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, it is crucial to strengthen the capacity of countries to detect, respond to, and manage outbreaks. The WHO can provide financial support to member states to enhance surveillance systems, laboratory networks, and rapid response capacities. This investment will not only protect global health but also support economic growth and stability by mitigating the economic impact of pandemics and other health crises.
Climate Change and Health
Climate change poses significant challenges to global health, and financial support from the WHO can play a vital role in addressing these challenges. The organization can provide financial support for research on the health impacts of climate change, develop strategies to adapt to changing environmental conditions, and support the implementation of sustainable health policies. By addressing the health implications of climate change, the WHO can contribute to the overall goal of ensuring that health is at the center of sustainable development.
Financial Transparency and Accountability
As the WHO’s financial support continues to grow, it is essential to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of funds. This includes improving reporting mechanisms, strengthening internal controls, and promoting public engagement. By promoting transparency and accountability, the WHO can build trust with its member states, partners, and the broader public, ensuring that financial support is used effectively and efficiently to achieve the organization’s mission.
In conclusion, the future opportunities and challenges surrounding the WHO’s financial support are numerous and complex. By focusing on strengthening national health systems, global health security, addressing the health impacts of climate change, and promoting financial transparency and accountability, the WHO can continue to play a vital role in promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable.
Recap of Key Points
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies heavily on financial support from its member states, international organizations, and private donors to fund its operations and achieve its mission. This financial support plays a crucial role in shaping the WHO’s priorities and actions, and it is essential to understand the impact of this support on the organization’s mission.
One of the key impacts of financial support on the WHO’s mission is the prioritization of certain health issues over others. For example, countries that contribute more funding to the WHO may have a greater influence on the organization’s priorities and may be more likely to see their health issues addressed. This can lead to a focus on certain health issues at the expense of others, which may not receive the same level of attention or resources.
Another impact of financial support on the WHO’s mission is the allocation of resources to different programs and initiatives. Countries that provide more funding to the WHO may also have more influence over the allocation of resources to specific programs or initiatives. This can lead to a concentration of resources in certain areas, which may not necessarily align with the organization’s overall mission and goals.
Additionally, financial support can also impact the WHO’s ability to maintain its independence and impartiality. The organization’s funding sources can create conflicts of interest or pressure to prioritize certain issues or countries over others. This can undermine the WHO’s credibility and effectiveness in achieving its mission.
Overall, the impact of financial support on the WHO’s mission is complex and multifaceted. It is essential to understand the ways in which funding shapes the organization’s priorities and actions, and to ensure that the WHO remains independent, impartial, and focused on its core mission of promoting health and well-being for all.
The Importance of Financial Support for the WHO’s Mission
Financial support plays a crucial role in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) ability to achieve its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. The WHO relies heavily on financial contributions from member states, private donors, and partners to fund its operations and programs. These funds are essential for the WHO to carry out its mandate to provide leadership on global health matters, shape the health research agenda, and set norms and standards for health.
Without adequate financial support, the WHO would be unable to respond effectively to public health emergencies, such as pandemics and outbreaks. It would also be unable to provide technical assistance and support to countries in need, including those with the least resources. Furthermore, financial support enables the WHO to work towards reducing inequalities in health and improving access to essential health services for all people.
In conclusion, financial support is vital for the WHO to achieve its mission and fulfill its role as the leading international organization for public health. The WHO relies on the generosity of its partners and donors to continue its work in promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable.
Call to Action for Increased Funding and Support
As the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to navigate the complex challenges of global health, it is essential to recognize the critical role that financial support plays in the success of its mission. Despite the many achievements of the WHO, its ability to effectively respond to the health needs of the world’s population is heavily reliant on the availability of financial resources. As such, there is a pressing need for increased funding and support from both member states and external partners to ensure the continued success of the WHO’s mission.
In order to address the funding gap and increase financial support for the WHO, there are several key actions that can be taken. These include:
- Member states increasing their contributions to the WHO’s budget: The WHO’s budget is primarily funded by member states, who contribute based on their Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, many member states have failed to meet their financial obligations, leading to a significant funding gap. To address this issue, member states must fulfill their financial commitments and increase their contributions to the WHO’s budget.
- Encouraging private sector involvement: The private sector has a critical role to play in addressing global health challenges, and can provide much-needed funding and resources to support the WHO’s mission. Governments and the WHO should work to encourage private sector involvement, through initiatives such as public-private partnerships and targeted investments.
- Seeking new sources of funding: The WHO must explore new sources of funding to supplement its budget and increase its financial resources. This could include partnerships with international organizations, philanthropic foundations, and other non-traditional sources of funding.
- Increasing transparency and accountability: To increase trust and confidence in the WHO and its mission, it is essential to increase transparency and accountability in its financial operations. This includes ensuring that funds are used effectively and efficiently, and that all expenditures are properly documented and justified.
By taking these actions, the WHO can increase its financial resources and better respond to the health needs of the world’s population. The success of the WHO’s mission is critical to the health and well-being of billions of people around the world, and increased funding and support are essential to achieving this success.
FAQs
1. What is the mission of the World Health Organization (WHO)?
The mission of the World Health Organization (WHO) is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. The organization works to provide leadership on global health matters, shape the health research agenda, set norms and standards for health, and articulate evidence-based policy options. It also strives to build sustainable financing mechanisms for health and improve access to essential medicines and health technologies. The WHO is committed to achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that every person can access quality health services, regardless of their ability to pay.
2. What are the main priorities of the WHO?
The main priorities of the WHO include promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. The organization works to achieve these priorities through various initiatives, including vaccination programs, disease control and prevention efforts, and health systems strengthening. The WHO also focuses on improving maternal and child health, reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases, and addressing health inequities. In addition, the organization works to improve access to essential medicines and health technologies, and to promote health through sustainable financing mechanisms.
3. How does the WHO receive funding?
The WHO receives funding from a variety of sources, including member states, private donors, and foundations. The organization’s budget is approved by the World Health Assembly, which is the supreme governing body of the WHO. The majority of the WHO’s funding comes from member states, which are assessed contributions based on their ability to pay. In addition, the organization receives funding from private donors and foundations that support its programs and initiatives. The WHO also receives funding from partnerships and collaborations with other organizations, including the World Bank and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
4. How does the WHO ensure transparency and accountability in its financial support?
The WHO is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in its financial support. The organization regularly publishes financial reports and budget documents, which are available to the public. In addition, the WHO has an internal audit department that monitors the use of funds and ensures that they are being used in accordance with the organization’s policies and procedures. The organization also has an external auditor, who provides an independent assessment of the WHO’s financial management. The WHO is committed to using its resources efficiently and effectively, and to ensuring that it is accountable to its member states and the public for its financial support.