Replenishing GAVI in 2014

Options for U.S. Engagement

Toward the end of 2014, the GAVI Alliance will host a pledging conference to generate funds for activities to be carried out during 2016–2020. Launched as a public-private partnership in January 2000, GAVI supports immunization programs for children living in the world’s least developed countries. Drawing on donor contributions of $7.6 billion since the alliance’s first replenishment in 2011, GAVI has reported solid progress in reaching its goals for the period between 2011 and 2015. GAVI’s continued success is important to the United States for several reasons.

This report reviews GAVI’s progress and challenges during the current phase of operations and offers recommendations for U.S. policymakers to consider as they develop an approach to the upcoming GAVI replenishment. It suggests that in recognition of GAVI’s strategic importance, accomplishments to date, and potential for future success, the United States should increase its commitment to GAVI for the 2016–2020 period. It also notes that U.S. policymakers may want to condition any future increases (beyond 2020) on GAVI’s success in the next phase in ensuring the sustainability of the current “graduation” schemes and clearly expanding the number of donor countries that are able to commit $50 to $75 million per year or more.

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Katherine E. Bliss
Senior Fellow and Director, Immunizations and Health Systems Resilience, Global Health Policy Center