Following President Donald Trump’s declaration about the U.S. leaving the World Health Organization (WHO), the agency plans to introduce major cost-cutting measures, as WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus revealed in an internal memo.
The decision coincides with allegations that the WHO responded inadequately to the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises.
According to the memo dated January 23, which Reuters reported, the WHO will sharply reduce travel expenses and limit recruitment strictly to critical areas. This strategy forms part of a broader initiative to navigate the agency through intensified financial pressures.
A WHO spokesperson confirmed the memo’s authenticity, though further comments were withheld. Tedros’s communication highlighted that while reforms to improve funding mechanisms—such as increased mandatory contributions from member states and a new investment initiative launched last year—have been underway, the organization still faces a dual challenge of needing more funds while having to slash costs.
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The planned austerity measures include transitioning to virtual meetings by default, restricting the replacement of IT equipment, and pausing office renovations unless they are safety-related or part of previously approved cost-saving measures. The memo also hints at more actions, reinforcing the WHO’s commitment to supporting and safeguarding its staff amidst these challenges.
🌍💊 WHO to Cut Costs and Review Priorities Following U.S. Exit
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— PiQ (@PiQSuite) January 24, 2025Tedros ended the memo with a note of appreciation for the team, expressing pride in their continued dedication to the WHO’s mission. Further updates on the organization’s financial and operational adjustments are anticipated as it adapts to the evolving global health landscape.
