Statement on the status of the Western Pacific Regional Director of the World Health Organization

The World Health Organization (WHO) has received allegations of misconduct against its regional director for the Western Pacific between the latter half of 2021 and 2022.

In accordance with the organization’s policy of zero tolerance for racist behavior, the allegations were investigated and dealt with in accordance with standard procedures applicable to all WHO staff. This includes the right of the regional director to receive all necessary evidence and to respond appropriately to the charges. These procedures have led to erroneous findings.

After careful consideration of the findings and consultation with the Regional Pacific Committee and Executive Board, the position of Regional Director was terminated.

Dr. Theodore Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, said the election cycle for the next Regional Director for the Western Pacific will begin in April 2023. The election will take place at the closed session of the regional committee in October 2023, and the candidate will go to the executive board for approval. This follows the normal process and time limit ie 5 years after the last selection of the Western Pacific Regional Director.

Dr Zsuzana Jakab, who has served as Western Pacific Regional Director since August 2022, will serve as Acting Regional Director until the new Regional Director takes office. Dr Jakab has served as Deputy Director-General since 2019 and was previously the WHO Regional Director for Europe.