After more than a year of deliberations, the World Bank finally approved its latest update to the Strategy for Health, Nutrition and Population Results, detailing its new health programs to reduce poverty in poor countries. “The bank is redoubling its commitment to help developing countries and global partners achieve better health for people and especially poor and vulnerable communities,” said World Bank Vice President for Human Development Joy Phumaphi. Last updated in 1977, the new strategy takes into account the increasing role of private donors, such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, in developing the health sector. The approval was under heat last week after Europe voiced protests against a controversial proposal by the U.S. to restrict the access of young women to reproductive services, including abortions. The U.S., under the Bush administration, has been known for its conservative stance on family planning, refusing to support abortion-related efforts and limiting access to birth control.
Source: World Bank health plan passes with no objections (Reuters)
