Baku: The UN system must undergo reforms in line with the changing world, Director-General of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated during a panel discussion at the 13th Global Baku Forum. According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Ghebreyesus emphasized that while the multilateral system has seen some progress, certain UN structures and governance mechanisms remain rooted in the post-World War II era.

The director-general highlighted that major multilateral institutions are not known for their agility or swift decision-making. He noted that although the decision-making processes of member states underpin multilateral cooperation, these processes are often sluggish. Ghebreyesus remarked that recent global shocks have hastened the implementation of necessary reforms, some of which had already begun but were advancing slowly.

Since assuming office in 2017, Ghebreyesus initiated the most extensive reform program in the WHO's history. He identified the excessive financial dependence on a limited number of donors as a significant risk, prompting steps to address this issue. In 2022, WHO member states approved a gradual increase in the share of mandatory membership contributions in the base budget from 14% to 50%.

Further, the director-general mentioned that member states have embarked on a governance reform process to enhance the global health governance system. He stressed that the goal of these reforms is not merely to preserve institutions but to sustain the capacity for collective action against common threats in a fragmented world.

Ghebreyesus concluded by stating that the UN's success is contingent on member states' adherence to its charter and rules. He emphasized that the UN, having earned great trust over 80 years, must continue to earn that trust daily, urging all who believe in the UN to work towards preserving it.