WHO to layoff over 2,000 employees amid budget crisis
What's the story
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a major downsizing effort, with plans to cut almost 25% of its workforce—or over 2,000 employees—by mid-2026. The decision comes after the United States, the organization's largest donor, announced its withdrawal. The Geneva-based agency's staff is expected to shrink from 9,401 in January 2025 to about 7,030 by June 2026. This includes job cuts as well as retirements and departures.
Financial outlook
WHO's budget deficit and future plans
The WHO is also grappling with a budget deficit of $1.06 billion for the 2026-2027 period, nearly a quarter of its total requirement. This is an improvement from the estimated gap of $1.7 billion in May. The agency's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that this year has been one of the most challenging in WHO's history due to these financial constraints and workforce reductions.
Organizational changes
WHO's response to staff departures and budget challenges
In light of the staff departures, a WHO spokesperson said that the workforce would shrink by up to 22%, depending on how many vacant posts are filled. The organization has already cut its management team by half as part of these reforms. Despite these challenges, the agency is preparing to move forward with a reshaped and renewed structure for better efficiency and effectiveness in its operations.