The World Health Organization (WHO) announced a significant restructuring of its executive management team on Wednesday, cutting nearly half of its senior leadership following severe funding reductions from the United States.
In an internal email obtained by AFP, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus informed staff of a streamlined “composition of the executive management team” that will shrink from 11 to 6 members. This new team will assume responsibilities starting June 16.
Two key leaders who played pivotal roles in the global COVID-19 response will be stepping down: Mike Ryan, the WHO’s emergencies director from Ireland, and Bruce Aylward, a Canadian official who leads efforts towards universal health coverage.
Tedros acknowledged Ryan’s dedication, stating, “Mike planned to leave over two years ago but stayed on at my request, and I am very thankful for that.” He added, “Ryan’s steady presence has been instrumental during our toughest times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Among the five remaining members is Jeremy Farrar, a British medical researcher and former head of the Wellcome Trust. Farrar will transition from chief scientist to assistant director-general, overseeing health promotion and disease prevention. His previous role as chief scientist will be filled by French physician Sylvie Briand, who currently heads the Pandemic and Epidemic Diseases Department.
Last month, Tedros had warned WHO member states that the agency faces drastic operational cuts and job losses due to a shortfall in funding following the US’s decision to cut financial support. The United States, historically the WHO’s largest donor, contributed $1.3 billion to the 2022–2023 budget, primarily through voluntary contributions targeted at specific projects rather than fixed membership fees.
However, the US government has not paid its dues for 2024 and is expected to withhold payments in 2025 as well, continuing President Donald Trump’s planned withdrawal set for next January.
“The WHO is currently facing a ‘salary gap’ estimated between $560 million and $650 million for 2026–2027,” Tedros revealed in April, without specifying the number of jobs that would be affected. He noted the headquarters in Geneva would bear the brunt of the impact, beginning with senior management positions.
While further budget cuts are not expected immediately, the looming financial crisis and its consequences will be key topics of discussion as member states convene for WHO’s annual assembly next week.
