WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO)
150TH MEETING OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (HYBRID VIRTUAL)
Statement by the United States
January 29, 2022
Human Resources: Update Agenda Item 23.3
As Delivered by James P. Shuster
Thank you, moderator and thank you Chair. The United States thanks both the Representative of the Staff Associations and the Ombudsman for the important roles they play at WHO and for their remarks just now.
The United States has also been made aware of certain allegations made against the WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, as reported in the media.
Without any prejudice to the merits of any particular complaint, the United States takes this opportunity to express its view that acts of racist, unethical, and abusive behavior not only cause profound harm, but also undermine the core values and essential life-saving work of WHO and its regional offices around the world.
Leadership of an organization sets the tone for the conduct of all its personnel at all levels. For this reason, it remains imperative that WHO transparently and expeditiously address any allegations of misconduct and abusive behavior in the organization.
Finally, WHO Headquarters is making efforts to improve Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) through the development of an articulated approach to DEI and an associated action plan. We would like to know how these tools are being implemented in regional offices, as well. Thank you.