China has nominated a candidate to lead the World Health Organization, a move that could expand Beijing's influence over the international body. The nomination comes after the United States quit the organization this year. Beijing is putting forward Song Li, a maternity health expert, for the top position. The nomination demonstrates China's firm support for multilateralism, according to foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.
Song Li is the head of the Department of Women and Child Health at China's National Health Commission. She has a 21-year career spanning various roles, according to the WHO. Song has participated in or organized the formulation of laws related to women and children's health, including prenatal diagnosis and assisted reproductive technology. Her experience and expertise make her a strong candidate for the position.
Song Li is in the running to replace incumbent director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, whose term ends in August 2027. Ghebreyesus cannot run again due to the two-term limit. The WHO is a UN agency that leads global efforts to expand universal health coverage. The organization plays a critical role in promoting global health and well-being.
China's announcement comes after the September 24 deadline for the role. It presents Beijing with an opportunity to fill the void left after US President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the organization. Trump accused the WHO of being a "puppet of China" during the Covid-19 pandemic. China previously accused Trump of trying to "shirk responsibility" to the WHO.
Song Li will run against candidates put forward by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Spain, Indonesia, and Botswana. There are three men and three women competing for the position. If elected, Song would be the second Chinese national to lead the WHO after Margaret Chan, who headed the organization between 2007 and 2017.
The nomination of Song Li demonstrates China's commitment to global health and its desire to play a more active role in international affairs. The WHO chief position is a critical role that requires strong leadership and expertise. The organization's next leader will face significant challenges, including addressing global health disparities and responding to pandemics.
The election of the new WHO chief will be closely watched by global health stakeholders. The organization's leadership has a significant impact on global health policies and programs. The winner will be expected to work with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote global health and well-being.
Key points
- China nominates maternity health expert Song Li for WHO top position
- Song Li to run against candidates from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Spain, Indonesia, and Botswana
- The nomination demonstrates China's firm support for multilateralism and its desire to play a more active role in international affairs
