Full Breakdown
WHO Director-General Race Gains Fifth Candidate as Nomination Deadline Passes
By Drooid · · How we work
New Candidate Enters the Race
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) online nomination portal recorded Spain’s Maria Neira joining the contest on the final day for submissions, September 24. Her entry brings the total number of applicants to five as the deadline closed overnight on September 25.
Candidate Field Overview
- Hanan Mohammed Al-Kuwari – former health minister of Qatar.
- Hanan Balkhy – physician who heads the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Office for Saudi Arabia.
- Hans Kluge – physician and current WHO Regional Director for Europe, representing Belgium.
- Maria Neira – physician, epidemiologist and former WHO director, representing Spain.
- Budi Gunadi Sadikin – Indonesia’s health minister.
Timeline of the Nomination Process
- September 24, 2026 – Maria Neira submits her candidacy, the last day for nominations.
- September 25, 2026 – Nomination period closes; the WHO website confirms five candidates have applied.
- November 2026 – A candidates’ forum is scheduled to allow applicants to present their visions.
- January 2027 – The WHO Executive Board will shortlist up to three candidates for the final election.
Context: Leadership Transition and Funding Challenges
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has served as WHO director-general since 2017, overseeing the agency’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola, mpox and other outbreaks. During his tenure, the United States withdrew its status as the WHO’s top donor in 2025 after President Donald Trump accused the organization of mishandling COVID-19; the WHO has denied that allegation.
Upcoming Steps
Following the November forum, the Executive Board’s shortlist in January 2027 will determine the final contenders for the director-general post, with the election to be held later that year.