WHO cuts management team in half, scales back operations
The World Health Organization (WHO) is facing significant challenges as it scales back operations and reduces its management team by half. This decision comes in the wake of the United States’ announcement to leave the agency and cut funding, which has put a strain on the WHO’s financial resources.
During a budget committee meeting, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the need to prioritize tasks due to limited resources. The proposed budget for 2026-27 has been cut by 21 per cent to $4.2 billion US, with only 60 per cent expected to be funded unless member states agree to raise their mandatory fees at the upcoming annual meeting.
In an effort to save costs, the WHO has implemented efficiency measures, including reducing the number of departments from 76 to 34 and planning to cut staff costs by 25 per cent. Tedros clarified that this reduction does not necessarily mean a 25 per cent cut in jobs, but it will impact the organization’s capacity to carry out its work effectively. Some offices in high-income countries will also be closed as part of the restructuring.
To address the challenges posed by the funding cuts, the WHO is exploring collaborations with other global health organizations. The new leadership team, now consisting of seven members including Tedros, has undergone changes to streamline operations. Dr. Jeremy Farrar has been appointed as the assistant director-general for health promotion and disease prevention, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu as the executive director of the health emergencies program, and Dr. Sylvie Briand as the chief scientist.
The WHO’s efforts to adapt to the funding constraints are crucial in ensuring that it can continue its vital work in promoting global health. Despite the challenges ahead, the organization remains committed to its mission of improving health outcomes for populations worldwide.
