🔗 Share this article WHO Confronts Significant Workforce Reduction Following United States Funding Withdrawal The international health organization revealed intentions to reduce its staff by almost a quarter – totaling more than 2,000 jobs – before the middle of 2026. Financial Shortfall Prompts Major Reorganization The move follows after the US, previously the organization's biggest contributor, withdrew financial support earlier this year. Washington was contributing approximately 18% of the agency's total budget, causing a significant budgetary gap. Expected Staff Reductions According to organizational estimates, the workforce is expected to drop from 9,401 positions in early 2025 to approximately seven thousand and thirty by mid-2026. The reduction of two thousand three hundred and seventy-one positions includes staff reductions, retirements, and regular attrition. "This year was among the most difficult in our history, while we have navigated a challenging but essential journey of prioritisation and realignment," commented the agency's leader. Budget Shortfall Remains The Switzerland-headquartered body currently faces a budget gap of $1.06bn for the upcoming biennium, representing nearly a fourth of its total budget. This figure represents an improvement from a prior projected shortfall of 1.7 billion dollars noted in May. Excluded Funding These budget calculations do not include an additional $1.1bn in potential funding from current negotiations with various contributors. The spokesperson for the agency noted that the current unfunded part of the biennial budget is in fact smaller than in previous periods, attributing this to multiple factors: A smaller overall budget Initiation of a new fundraising campaign An increase in participating countries' mandatory fees This realignment initiative is now approaching its completion, allowing the agency to progress with a reshaped operational model.