Belgian national Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge has officially commenced his second five-year term as the Regional Director for the World Health Organization’s (WHO) European Region. His reappointment was confirmed during the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board in Geneva, Switzerland, following his nomination by the 53 Member States of the region in October 2024.

Dr. Kluge, who first took office in 2020, emphasized continuity and expansion in his leadership approach. “We will continue to build on the many successes of the past five years, including our work on pandemic preparedness, health system strengthening, mental health, digital health, and immunization,” he stated.

Expanding Priorities for a Healthier Europe

Dr. Kluge outlined key areas of focus for his second term, including strengthening national health security, tackling the health effects of climate change, addressing antimicrobial resistance, and promoting healthy aging amid shifting demographics. He also reaffirmed WHO/Europe’s commitment to advancing gender equality, reproductive health rights, and combating the rising tide of gender-based violence.

His first term coincided with unprecedented global health crises, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the outbreak of mpox, alongside extreme weather events, humanitarian crises, and natural disasters, such as the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. Reflecting on these challenges, he described the past five years as a “permacrisis” for global health, demanding resilience from health systems and workers across the region.

“Being reappointed for a second term as WHO Regional Director for Europe is the greatest honor of my life,” said Dr. Kluge. “Together with the 53 Member States, we will accomplish great things for public health, find innovative solutions to pressing health challenges, and respond to emergencies wherever they arise.”

Implementing the Second European Programme of Work (EPW2)

A key aspect of Dr. Kluge’s second term will be the implementation of the second European Programme of Work (EPW2), a strategic five-year plan currently being developed in consultation with Member States, civil society, and WHO staff. He emphasized the importance of clear priorities, particularly in a time of financial constraints, to address the needs of nearly one billion people across Europe and Central Asia.

“I am laser-focused on delivering EPW2 with crystal-clear priorities,” Dr. Kluge stated. “Our Member States continue to show solidarity and multilateralism at a time of deepening distrust and division.”

Personal Reflections and Commitment

Expressing gratitude for the support he has received, Dr. Kluge credited his family as a source of inspiration and motivation. “My father, a doctor, and my mother, a nurse, taught my sister and me to always stand up for the vulnerable and to serve with humility. My wife, Katerina, and my daughters, Anastasia and Sofia, are the driving forces behind my dedication to public health.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Kluge acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead for global health but reaffirmed his commitment to leading WHO/Europe through them. “The next five years will be challenging for public health on multiple fronts, but I am ready to lead WHO/Europe through thick and thin, with the support of all Member States in this diverse region.”