⏱ 1 min read
Background
The World Health Organization (WHO), based in Geneva, will appoint a new director-general in 2027. Member states could put forward candidates. The WHO published the list on 29 October 2026.
The key points
Seven candidates have been proposed: Hanan Mohammed Al-Kuwari, Hanan Balkhy, Hans Henri P. Kluge, María P. Neira, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Li Song and Gevorg Tamamyan.
They will engage with member states on 18 and 19 November 2026, at a first forum at WHO headquarters in Geneva, streamed publicly online. In early 2027, the Executive Board will draw up a shortlist of five names. It will then nominate up to three.
A second forum will take place on 15 March 2027. In May 2027, theWorld Health Assembly will appoint the new director-general.
Key figures
- 7 : candidates proposed
- 5 : candidates on the Executive Board shortlist
- 34 : members of the Executive Board
- 16 August 2027 : new director-general takes office
What's next
- First candidates' forum on 18 and 19 November 2026 in Geneva.
- Second forum on 15 March 2027.
- Election by the World Health Assembly in May 2027.
Further reading
Sources
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