World Medical Association Announces Appointment of Dr Ramin Parsa-Parsi as Secretary General

The World Medical Association is pleased to announce that Dr Ramin Parsa-Parsi, MD, MPH, will assume the position of Secretary General of the World Medical Association, effective 1 May 2026.

Dr Parsa-Parsi, a physician with a Master of Public Health, brings extensive experience in global health, medical ethics, and international medical leadership. His career spans senior roles in national medical associations, governmental and multilateral institutions, and academia.

He has contributed significantly to the development of core WMA ethical instruments, supported physician self-governance worldwide, and played an important role in strengthening international health policy dialogue. We are confident that his expertise, vision, and long-standing commitment to the profession will reinforce the work of the WMA Secretariat in the years ahead.

As we welcome new leadership, we also extend our deepest appreciation to Dr Otmar Kloiber, who has served with exceptional dedication as Secretary General of the World Medical Association since 2005. Dr Kloiber’s tenure has been marked by unwavering commitment to the global medical profession and to advancing the ethical foundations of medical practice.

Over the course of his career,  Dr Kloiber has contributed significantly to the work of European and international medical bodies, including the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME), the International Conference of Medical Chambers, the European Forum of Medical Associations, and the World Health Organization.

His leadership has strengthened cooperation among National Medical Associations and elevated the WMA’s role as a global voice for medical ethics and professional autonomy.

We express our sincere gratitude for Dr Kloiber’s long-standing service, his profound expertise, and his sustained commitment to the values and mission of WMA.

The WMA looks forward to working closely with its National Medical Associations and partners as it enters this new chapter of leadership.

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