WHO cuts leadership and operations amid budget shortfall

The World Health Organization (WHO) has halved its leadership team and will scale back operations due to significant budget constraints, Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced on Wednesday. The move follows the United States’ decision to withdraw from the agency and halt funding—leaving a large financial gap.

Tedros emphasized the need to prioritize resources as the proposed 2026–2027 budget faces a 21% reduction to $4.2 billion, with only 60% of that expected to be funded. Member states are being urged to increase their contributions at the upcoming annual meeting.

Efficiency measures aim to save $165 million this year. WHO plans to reduce its departments from 76 to 34 and cut staff costs by 25%, though not through direct job cuts. Some offices in high-income countries will also close. Collaborative efforts with other health groups are underway.