Dr Jarno Habicht, who served as WHO Representative in Ukraine for 8 years, has received the country’s Order of Merit, III Class.
The state award, recognizing his significant contribution and that of the WHO Country Office in Ukraine to the development of Ukraine’s health system, was conferred by a Presidential Decree devoted to Medical Workers’ Day signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 24 July 2026.
Dr Jarno Habicht, outgoing WHO Representative in Ukraine, holds the state award from the President of Ukraine - Order of Merit, III Class.
Dr Habicht led the Country Office from November 2018 to August 2026, through a health system transformation, the COVID-19 pandemic and a complex operation in wartime.
Throughout, the Country Office team has worked alongside the Government of Ukraine and partners on emergency response, and health system reform, recovery and transformation.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled. While the award carries my name, I see it very much as a recognition of our WHO Ukraine team and what we have achieved together. Thank you all for your commitment, resilience and incredible work over these years. I am truly grateful and proud to have been part of this journey with you,” Dr Jarno Habicht said as he accepted the recognition on behalf of the entire Country Office team.
On 1 September 2026, Dr Habicht handed over his position to Dr Silviu Domente, the new WHO Representative in Ukraine, who will continue WHO’s presence and commitment to supporting Ukraine’s health system, and addressing Ukraine’s key health priorities and population health needs.