GENEVA (Reuters) – An internal memo revealed on Tuesday that the World Health Organization is implementing new priorities and limiting staff contracts to one year in an effort to enhance sustainability following the U.S. withdrawal. The memo, dated March 10 and signed by WHO’s Assistant Director-General Raul Thomas, outlined additional cost-cutting measures as part of ongoing efforts since U.S. President Donald Trump’s January announcement. Senior WHO officials have initiated a “prioritization” process to ensure the agency’s sustainability, focusing on directing resources towards critical priorities while maintaining its ability to create a lasting impact. The memo highlighted ongoing efforts to secure additional funding from various sources, without specifying the success of these endeavors. While immediate staff reductions were not announced, the memo acknowledged that challenging decisions may be necessary given the current circumstances. A WHO spokesperson was unavailable for immediate comment.
