The key point: WHO member states have nominated seven candidates to succeed the Director-General of the Geneva-based organisation.
The candidates
- List: Hanan Mohammed Al-Kuwari, Hanan Balkhy, Hans Henri P. Kluge, María P. Neira, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Li Song and Gevorg Tamamyan.
The timetable
- 18–19 November 2026: first public candidates’ forum at WHO headquarters in Geneva.
- Early 2027: the Executive Board shortlists five names, then nominates up to three.
- May 2027: the World Health Assembly appoints the new head.
Key figures
- Candidates: 7.
- Taking office: 16 August 2027.
In short
The race to lead the WHO has begun. The final choice will be made in May 2027.
