WHO Ombuds Reports on Systemic Issues During 2025 Organizational Transition

The World Health Organization’s Ombudsperson has released a report to the Executive Board outlining systemic issues observed in 2025 amid unprecedented budget cuts and organizational restructuring. (Robert Edelmann served as the WHO Ombuds until August 2025, but the report does not name the current Ombuds.) Drawing on confidential interactions across all levels of WHO, the report says the year was marked by uncertainty, reprioritization, and significant human impact. 

The WHO Ombuds highlighted recurring concerns about transparency, dignity, morale, and trust during the transition, including perceptions of favoritism, difficulties accessing information, fear of retaliation, and a widening gap between stated values and lived experience. Particular concern is raised about the sharp reduction in Ombuds capacity across WHO, with several regional positions vacant despite increased need. The report notes that more proactive engagement with the Ombuds office could help resolve staff concerns informally and reduce reliance on formal complaint processes. (WHO Ombuds 2025 Report.)

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