In a controversial and far-reaching decision, former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order initiating the United States' withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). Citing the WHO's alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and undue political influence, Trump has directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to notify the United Nations and the WHO of the decision. This marks the second time such a move has been initiated under Trump’s leadership, following a similar attempt in 2020.
The Decision to Withdraw
The executive order directs the U.S. Secretary of State to formally notify the United Nations and the WHO of the country’s intent to exit the organization. The withdrawal process is set to take 12 months, during which U.S. financial contributions—currently accounting for approximately 18% of the WHO’s funding—will be halted. According to Reuters, this decision is tied to Trump’s criticism of the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which he alleged was influenced by political bias and mismanagement.
In addition to the withdrawal, the Trump administration plans to cease negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty, recall U.S. personnel from the organization, and reassess the U.S. Global Health Security Strategy. This decision mirrors a similar attempt in 2020, which was later reversed by President Joe Biden upon taking office.
Financial and Global Health Implications
The United States has historically been the largest contributor to the WHO, accounting for approximately 18% of its total funding. The cessation of U.S. funding will likely disrupt various global health programs, including initiatives targeting HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Additionally, this decision may impact pandemic preparedness and ongoing efforts to address health inequities in low- and middle-income countries.
“This withdrawal is a significant blow to the international health community,” noted Dr. Maria Chen, a public health expert. “The U.S. has been a critical partner in addressing global health emergencies. This move creates uncertainty about the future of these efforts.”
Political Context
This decision also includes a halt to U.S. participation in negotiations on the WHO’s pandemic treaty, a global effort to strengthen preparedness and response to future health crises. The Trump administration has vowed to redirect resources to bilateral health initiatives and domestic health security strategies.
The move mirrors Trump’s previous stance on international organizations, which he has often criticized for lacking accountability and transparency. However, it remains to be seen whether the U.S.’s withdrawal will be reversed by a future administration, as it was during President Joe Biden’s term in 2021.
The Path Forward
While the United States’ withdrawal from the WHO may reflect political priorities, it raises critical questions about the future of global health collaboration. Stakeholders in the international health community will need to navigate this shift and explore alternative sources of funding to mitigate potential disruptions to vital health programs.
In the face of global health challenges, cooperation and strong partnerships remain more critical than ever. Whether the United States will eventually rejoin the WHO or chart a different path in global health leadership is a story that will continue to unfold in the coming months.
For more details on this developing story, read the full report on Reuters.