International backing emerges for Gevorg Tamamyan’s WHO leadership bid

International support is beginning to build around Professor Gevorg Tamamyan following his nomination to lead the World Health Organization.

Within days of the announcement, the Armenian pediatric oncologist and hematologist has received public endorsements from prominent figures in medicine, cancer advocacy and global health, as well as from major professional organizations.

Princess Dina Mired of Jordan, a leading international advocate in cancer prevention and global health and a former president of the Union for International Cancer Control, was among those to welcome the nomination. She praised Tamamyan’s record of leadership and his longstanding engagement in international health issues.

Another prominent endorsement came from Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the South African-born American surgeon, scientist and entrepreneur who owns and serves as executive chairman of the Los Angeles Times. Soon-Shiong drew particular attention to Tamamyan’s work with communities facing limited access to health care and to his broader approach to cancer as an international public-health challenge. He publicly pledged his full support for the Armenian physician’s candidacy.

Professional medical bodies have also joined the growing list of supporters. The International Society of Paediatric Oncology and the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer are among the organizations that have expressed backing for Tamamyan.

The nomination has also generated support from a wider network of physicians, researchers, health-sector leaders and representatives of international institutions across several countries.

Tamamyan’s candidacy places an Armenian physician in the race for one of the most influential positions in global public health. The process to select the next WHO Director-General is expected to conclude in 2027.