WHO weighs 20% budget reduction and job cuts, internal memo shows

SWITZERLAND – The World Health Organization (WHO) is facing a significant financial crisis due to cuts in U.S. funding, which has led to a proposed 21% reduction in its budget for the 2026-27 period.

The U.S., which historically contributed around 18% of the WHO’s funding, withdrew support during President Trump’s administration, citing the organization’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This has left a substantial funding gap, prompting the WHO to scale back its operations, including cutting jobs at senior levels in its headquarters in Geneva.

In response to this funding shortfall, the WHO has announced plans to reduce its budget from US $5.3 billion to US $4.2 billion.

This move is in line with a broader trend of reduced development spending by member states, exacerbated by rising defense budgets in many countries.

In an internal memo dated March 28, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that despite best efforts, the organization had no choice but to scale back its work and workforce.

The budget cuts will impact all levels of the WHO, though the most significant reductions will be at senior leadership levels in Geneva.

Staff across all regions will also be affected, with many facing job uncertainties. The WHO is in the process of prioritizing its work and determining how to allocate limited resources. This reorganization is expected to be finalized by the end of April.

To mitigate the funding gap, WHO staff are actively seeking additional financial support from member states, private donors, and philanthropists.

The WHO continues to be a key player in global health, providing essential guidance and resources, particularly in combating infectious diseases and health crises.

However, without adequate funding, the agency’s ability to fulfill its global health mandates may be significantly hampered.