Saudi Arabia nominates Hanan Balkhy for WHO director-general post

Saudi Arabia announced on Thursday the nomination of Dr. Hanan Hassan Balkhy for the position of director-general of the World Health Organization for the term from 2027 to 2032.

The nomination underscores the Kingdom’s support for the pivotal role played by the WHO in strengthening global health security and assisting countries in building more efficient, sustainable, and resilient health systems capable of addressing current and future health challenges.

This move reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateral health cooperation and its ongoing contribution to enhancing prevention, preparedness, and response to health emergencies, achieving universal health coverage, and ensuring access to healthcare for the most vulnerable communities in support of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Extensive scientific and leadership experience

Dr. Hanan Balkhy has broad expertise in public health, infectious diseases, infection prevention and control, health security, health systems, and international health.

She has held leadership roles within the WHO at the country, regional, and global levels, including being elected as WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean and serving as Assistant Director-General for Antimicrobial Resistance.

Throughout her career, Dr. Balkhy has contributed to the development and implementation of numerous health initiatives and policies aimed at protecting communities and strengthening health systems.

Advancing the organization and strengthening partnerships

Saudi Arabia’s nomination of Dr. Balkhy reflects its aspiration to contribute to the development of the WHO, enhance its ability to meet the needs of member states, uphold the principles of equity, transparency, and efficiency, and build effective international partnerships to promote health and well-being worldwide.