WHO Announces significant Staff Cuts Amidst Funding Shortfall Following US Withdrawal
Geneva, Switzerland – The World Health Institution (WHO) is undergoing a major restructuring resulting in cuts to approximately 25% of its global workforce, CEO Tedros adhanom Ghebreyesus announced in a message to staff. The reductions, impacting roughly 2,100 positions, stem from a severe budget deficit exceeding $1 billion projected for the next two years, largely attributed to the withdrawal of funding from the United States.
Founded in 1948 as part of the United nations, the WHO plays a critical role in global health, conducting research, providing information and financing, and leading infection control efforts. The organization monitors and responds to epidemics and pandemics,including COVID-19.
According to the WHO, unfilled retirements account for a portion of the staff reduction. The figures do not include previously laid-off advisors and temporary workers. as of January 2025, the WHO employs approximately 9,400 people across its headquarters in Geneva and 150 offices worldwide.
“This year has been one of the most difficult in WHO history,” Tedros stated. “We have had to go through a painful but necessary process of reform, which has led to a significant reduction in our global workforce.” He indicated the organizational reform is nearing completion.
The WHO intends to address the budget shortfall by increasing mandatory contributions from member states and launching a new fundraising campaign.
The cuts raise concerns about the potential impact on global health initiatives, particularly in Africa. Afrika-correspondent Saskia Houttuin notes that the US withdrawal – initially enacted by former President Trump in 2020 and now being revisited – threatens progress made in combating diseases like malaria. Cape Verde was recently declared malaria-free, and vaccination programs are underway in numerous African countries. Experts warn that these gains are at risk, compounded by cuts to the US Agency for International Advancement (USAID), which also provided crucial support for disease control programs targeting malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.