Six reforms to make WHO ready for the future (3/6)

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Published: 2026-05-19 | Updated: 2026-05-19

Reform 3: Reduce operational and delivery functions.

In The Lancet (April 2026), Anders Nordström, John Nkengasong, Peter Piot, Magda Robalo Correia e Silva, Ala Alwan, Ethel L Maciel, Ren Minghui, and Michel Kazatchkine lay out the case for focused, ambitious reform.

WHO should scale back operational roles, particularly in emergencies. Functions such as logistics and procurement should transition to agencies better suited for delivery roles, such as WFP and UNICEF. This should not be misinterpreted as a withdrawal from the emergency context. It is a strategic refocusing to further strengthen WHO’s authority, coordination, surveillance, and technical support. 

Read more: https://www.globalhealthdiplomacy.se/who-worth-fighting-for-authors-make-the-case-for-ambitious-reform