Jakarta, October 13, 2026 – The Europe Today: Indonesia has nominated Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin for the position of Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), reaffirming its commitment to reforming global health governance and enhancing the representation of developing countries in international institutions.
Indonesian Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir announced the nomination in Jakarta on Monday, stating that the initiative reflected Indonesia’s determination to promote a more equitable global health system that addresses the needs and priorities of developing nations.
During his inaugural press briefing, Nasir highlighted shortcomings in the existing multilateral system, arguing that it had not adequately served developing countries. He reiterated Indonesia’s call for comprehensive reforms to make international institutions more inclusive and responsive.
He said Sadikin’s candidacy represented Indonesia’s willingness to contribute more actively to global health governance and support the development of a fairer international framework.
The foreign minister also underscored Indonesia’s role on the United Nations Board of Auditors, highlighting the country’s commitment to promoting accountability, transparency and effective governance within international organizations.
Beyond global health, Indonesia is pursuing a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2029–2030 term. Nasir said the country would advocate for a Security Council that is more effective, representative, transparent and democratic.
He further emphasized the importance of international law and multilateral cooperation in maintaining global stability, stressing that international agreements should be implemented consistently and applied equally to all countries.
Sadikin is expected to face competition from six other candidates for the WHO’s top leadership position, with the election scheduled for May 2027. Reported contenders include former WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge, nominated by Belgium; former Qatari Health Minister Hanan Al-Kuwari; and WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Hanan Balkhy.
The current WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, is due to complete his second term on August 15, 2027. His successor is expected to be appointed at the 80th World Health Assembly in May 2027.
Indonesia’s nomination comes amid broader international calls to strengthen the participation of developing countries in global decision-making. The initiative also reflects ongoing efforts to reform multilateral institutions and make them more representative, transparent and responsive to the needs of the international community.
