Saudi Arabia nominates Hanan Balkhy for WHO director-general post

Saudi Arabia has nominated Dr. Hanan Balkhy to serve as the World Health Organization's director-general for the 2027-2032 term. The Kingdom's selection highlights its commitment to bolstering global health security and supporting countries in establishing robust, sustainable, and resilient health systems. This decision underscores Saudi Arabia's dedication to multilateral health cooperation and its ongoing efforts to prevent, prepare for, and respond to health emergencies, as well as its support for universal health coverage and equitable access to healthcare.

Dr. Balkhy possesses extensive experience in public health, infectious diseases, infection control, health security, health systems, and international health. She has held key leadership positions within the WHO, such as serving as the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Director and Assistant Director-General for Antimicrobial Resistance.

Her career has been marked by her contributions to various health initiatives and policies aimed at safeguarding communities and strengthening health systems. The nomination of Dr. Balkhy by Saudi Arabia demonstrates the country's aspiration to play a pivotal role in shaping the WHO, improving its capacity to meet member states' needs, adhering to principles of equity, transparency, and efficiency, and fostering effective international partnerships to promote global health and well-being.