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WHO representative in Russia acknowledges flaws in World Health Organization, admitting it's no exception among global institutions.

In the year 2023, a wave of worry arose as the World Health Organization's (WHO) Moscow office specialized in non-communicable disease prevention shut down, and its emissary in Russia, Melita Vujnovic, declared the conclusion of her tenure.

,   and  Administrator
5 min read

WHO representative in Russia acknowledges flaws in World Health Organization, admitting it's no exception among global institutions.

What's Cooking Between WHO and Russia Today? An Unfiltered Peek

  • Health cooperation between WHO and Russia continues to focus on non-communicable diseases and their contributing factors: tobacco, alcohol, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diets. Other aspects include infectious diseases, aging healthily, mental health, and antimicrobial resistance. As of 2025, they're implementing the 14th General Programme of Work, with strategic priorities centered on disease prevention, universal healthcare, and emergency preparedness.

Over 20 collaborative centers are operational in Russia, supporting WHO programs. In autumn 2024, a new center for geriatrics and elderly care was established. Additional centers are in the pipeline. At the moment, consultations and development of a new five-year program (2026-2030) are underway in the European region of WHO, which covers Russia. Key topics include aging populations, mental health, workforce in healthcare, and AI in healthcare.

  • When asked about significant changes in WHO's work in the country over the past three years, despite imposed sanctions (notably the relocation of the office for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases from Moscow to Copenhagen), they affirm their commitment to keeping health and healthcare issues untouched by politics. Bilateral cooperation persists active. Russian delegates remain regular attendees at World Health Assembly sessions and other governing bodies. Experts from the country participate in expert working groups on various subjects, promoting their nation's interests and sharing success stories worldwide.
  • Some people often compare healthcare spendings as a percentage of GDP across countries to gauge medical care access and quality. But this particular approach is subject to evaluation. High healthcare expenses in low-income countries could merely reflect external funding for health programs provided by international institutions, ensuring clean drinking water or conducting mass immunizations. Thus, directly comparing countries using only one indicator may not be accurate.
  • The WHO champions the appropriate use of generic drugs as an efficient method to treat diseases, improve health indicators, and reduce financial burdens on both patients and governments. With strong national regulatory bodies ensuring the quality and effectiveness of drugs approved for use in a country, educational work on generic usage can increase trust in non-branded drugs.
  • In late January 2025, China initiated inspections of generic drug quality following concerns from doctors. Russian doctors have expressed similar concerns. Quality, safety, and efficacy concerns apply equally to generics and patented medications. Global efforts tackle the issue, with WHO combating the spread of substandard and counterfeit drugs.
  • In Japan, where the share of generics is lower than in Europe and the US, insurance companies distribute leaflets to patients describing the benefits of generic drugs. While there may be a bias against generics, increased trust can be achieved through educational efforts alongside strengthening the capacity of regulatory bodies.
  • The WHO, in early 2021, led an international team of experts, including specialists from Russia, who investigated the origin of the coronavirus in Wuhan. After considering four scenarios of infection (direct transmission from animals, intermediate host, food chain, and a laboratory incident), the team concluded that transmission through a laboratory incident is highly improbable, whereas all other scenarios remain possible or likely. The WHO continues to assess all versions.
  • As the pandemic unfolded, antibiotics were used to treat many individuals. Consequently, the situation with antibiotic-resistant bacteria raised concerns. WHO works to tackle this issue through several means, including improving diagnostic and monitoring methods, raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public, and optimizing antibiotic use. The WHO launched the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS) in 2015, and Russia actively participates in it. Since 2008, the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor has been operating a reference center for monitoring healthcare-associated infections, and since 2018, a reference center for antibiotic residues in food and feed, and bacterial antibiotic resistance.
  • It's worth noting the controversy over Trump's decision to withdraw the US from the WHO in 2020. Opinions vary, but many believe this move could have serious consequences for the US. These include losing the opportunity to engage in global health dialogues on WHO platforms, limited access to global databases, and forfeiting the chance to collectively combat global health challenges. However, WHO continues discussions at headquarters, hoping the US will reconsider this decision.
  • Within the context of WHO's work, there are several regional and global AMR initiatives in which Russia may participate or share resources. They include the Regional One Health Coordination Mechanism (ROHCM), EU-JAMRAI 2 Joint Action, and the Pandemic Agreement Proposals. The WHO draft agreement also emphasizes AMR mitigation, which applies to all member states, but no specific Russia-related provisions are highlighted. The UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on AMR and the One Health Conference, co-hosted by WHO Europe and Denmark, are upcoming events where Russia's participation is not explicitly confirmed. However, it remains uncertain whether Russia is directly engaged in these collaborative frameworks or initiatives.
  • The healthcare industry is projected to prioritize chronic diseases and their management in 2025, including respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, and hearing disorders.
  • Health and wellness trends will continue to include fitness and exercise, autoimmune disorders, and mental health.
  • Science and technology advancements will contribute to innovative therapies and treatments for various medical-conditions.
  • Climate change will impact healthcare, especially through its effects on food production, water availability, and extreme weather events, potentially worsening health outcomes.
  • Manufacturing processes in the industry will focus on sustainability, minimizing waste, and reducing the carbon footprint.
  • As the aging population grows, managing cardiovascular health, skin conditions, and neurological disorders will become essential.
  • Environmental science will play a crucial role in assessing the impacts of pollution, pesticides, and chemicals on public health.
  • Financial institutions and investors will be crucial in shaping the future of the healthcare industry through supporting inventive startups, venture capital, and wealth management.
  • The energy sector will work towards powering healthcare facilities and transport systems in an environmentally-friendly manner.
  • Retail stores and online platforms will offer various health-related products, such as supplements, fitness gear, and over-the-counter medications.
  • Entrepreneurship will drive innovation in healthcare through new businesses focusing on telemedicine, wearable technology, and smart home devices.
  • Transportation infrastructure will need to adapt to accommodate the increasing needs of an aging population and to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities.
  • Leadership within the healthcare industry will continue to encourage diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where all perspectives are valued.
  • The industry will focus on data and cloud computing to streamline medical records, enhance communication, and support research advancements.
  • The lifestyle sector will pursue trends promoting health and well-being, encompassing organic food, mindfulness practices, and stress-reducing activities.
  • Small businesses will play a significant role in the industry by offering niche medical services and unique health products.
  • Investing in startups and businesses that focus on health and wellness can be a lucrative option for those seeking financial growth and stability.
  • Wealth management strategies will need to adapt to cater to the complex needs of an aging population, prioritizing retirement planning, long-term care insurance, and estate planning.
  • Home and garden trends will shift towards creating spaces that support healthy living, with an emphasis on eco-friendly materials, air purification systems, and adaptive gardening.
  • Businesses will need to navigate the complex landscape of data protection and cybersecurity as they store and share sensitive patient information.
  • Careers in healthcare are projected to grow significantly, with a demand for professionals in fields such as nursing, lab research, public health, and healthcare management.
  • The healthcare industry will strive for a more patient-centered approach, focusing on improving patient satisfaction, educating patients, and ensuring access to quality care for all.
  • Private equity investments will be crucial in shoring up the financial stability of healthcare companies and facilitating further growth within the sector.
  • Personal finance advice will need to address the rising costs of healthcare, emphasizing budgeting, debt management, and investments in health and wellness.
  • Banking and insurance companies will adapt their policies to better serve the needs of consumers in the age of digital health.
  • Fintech innovations will streamline financial transactions, making it easier for consumers to access and manage their health-related finances.
  • Real estate developers will focus on creating health-conscious communities, incorporating green spaces, walkable neighborhoods, and services like grocery stores and pharmacies within a short distance.
  • The stock market will react to news and trends within the healthcare industry, presenting investment opportunities for those interested in the sector.
  • In the face of increasing challenges, the healthcare industry will need to find ways to work collaboratively and innovatively to improve health outcomes for all people.
The Shutdown of the Moscow-based WHO Division for Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and the Termination of Melita Vujinovich's Role in Russia by 2023 has Ignited Fears of WHO's Reduction in Activities.

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