For the first time in the 78-year history of the World Health Organization, the name of an Armenian has appeared among the candidates nominated for the position of Director-General of the organization.
The Republic of Botswana has nominated Armenian pediatric oncologist Gevorg Tamamyan for the position of WHO Director-General.
Tamamyan announced his nomination on social media, thanking Botswana President Duma Gideon Boko and the country’s government for their trust.
“Botswana has shown the world what determined national leadership can achieve in the face of extraordinary health challenges. I am honored to be nominated by a country with such a powerful story of resilience and progress.
I have spent my career as a pediatric oncologist, building care in places where resources were limited and communities were underserved. I have seen children survive when few believed they would. And I have seen children die simply because of where they were born.
Geography must not decide who lives.
Growing up, the words “recommended by WHO” meant trust. Today, in a world of misinformation and eroding confidence in institutions, we must ensure that the world continues to have WHO—stronger, more agile, and better aligned with today’s realities.
My vision is clear: a World Health Organization that delivers—faster, more effectively, and in true partnership with Member States—so that progress in health reaches every person, everywhere.
It is also an honor to stand alongside such distinguished candidates, each bringing important experience and perspectives to this process.
In the months ahead, I look forward to listening to and engaging with Member States across every region of the world”, - he posted on facebook.
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