The World Health Organization reported that by mid-2026, its staff will be reduced by 22%. This decision is related to the fact that the US administration has decided to withdraw from the WHO, which in turn leads to a cessation of funding.
The United States was the main donor to the WHO, providing about 18% of its total funding. In the absence of these funds, the organization will have to cut 2,371 employees by June 2026. The cuts will involve both layoffs and retirements or voluntary departures.
As of the beginning of 2025, there were 9,401 people working at the WHO, with the maximum number of employees recorded in December 2024 being 9,457. The most significant reduction will occur at the headquarters in Geneva (28%), followed by the African (25%) and European (24%) offices. As a result, the total number of employees will amount to only 7,360 — the lowest figure since 2014.
The report also highlights a financial shortfall of $1.05 billion for 2026-2027, which is lower compared to $1.7 billion in 2025. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that the current year has been one of the most challenging in the organization's history; however, it intends to continue its activities in a renewed and transformed format.
