Why is the World Health Organization cutting staff?

The WHO is cutting staff due to significant budget reductions, largely prompted by the US withdrawal and decreased contributions from other member states.

How many jobs will be lost at the WHO?

Approximately 2,371 posts, nearly a quarter of its workforce, are slated for elimination by June 2026.

What impact will WHO staff cuts have on Africa?

The African regional office faces substantial cuts, potentially weakening disease surveillance and emergency response capabilities in the region.

Home / Health / WHO Faces Massive Job Cuts, Global Health At Risk

WHO Faces Massive Job Cuts, Global Health At Risk

19 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Nearly a quarter of WHO's workforce, over 2,000 jobs, to be cut by June 2026.
Budget cuts stemming from US withdrawal impact global health security.
African regional office faces significant staff reductions impacting disease surveillance.

WHO Faces Massive Job Cuts, Global Health At Risk

The World Health Organization (WHO) is facing a significant reduction in its workforce, with plans to eliminate 2,371 posts by June 2026. This amounts to nearly a quarter of its staff and is primarily attributed to budget cuts resulting from the United States' withdrawal and reduced contributions from other nations. Experts express grave concern that these cuts will diminish the WHO's capacity to assist countries grappling with disease outbreaks, thereby increasing global health risks.