On January 22, 2025, the United States formally notified the United Nations of its intent to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), with the departure set to take effect on January 22, 2026. This decision, initiated by President Donald Trump, marks a significant shift in global health diplomacy and raises concerns about the future of international health initiatives. Let’s check out what the US Exit from WHO means?
Background and Rationale of US Exit from WHO
President Trump has been a vocal critic of the WHO, particularly regarding its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He has accused the organization of mismanagement and of being unduly influenced by certain member states. Upon his re-election, Trump reiterated his dissatisfaction, leading to the formal withdrawal notification.( Source: aljazeera.com)
Financial Implications
The United States is the WHO’s largest financial contributor, accounting for approximately 18% of its total funding. In the 2024-2025 budget cycle, the U.S. contributed around $500 million. The withdrawal of these funds poses a significant challenge to the WHO’s operations, potentially affecting programs targeting diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and various health emergencies.
Global Health Impact
The U.S. withdrawal could have far-reaching consequences:
- Programmatic Disruptions: Key health initiatives, especially in vulnerable regions, may face funding shortages, hindering efforts to combat infectious diseases and manage health crises.
- Data Sharing and Research: The absence of U.S. collaboration may impede global data sharing, crucial for tracking disease outbreaks and conducting research.
- Regulatory Frameworks: The U.S. plays a pivotal role in shaping health regulations. Its departure could lead to fragmented policies and weakened global health governance.
Also Read: Everything You Wanted to Know about the World Health Organization (WHO)
International Response
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged global leaders to encourage the U.S. to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the potential risks to global health security. He highlighted the organization’s reliance on U.S. funding for emergency programs and disease control efforts. Source: apnews.com
Domestic Considerations
The withdrawal has sparked debate within the U.S.:
- Legal Challenges: Some legal experts argue that, under a 1948 joint resolution of Congress, the President may require congressional approval to exit the WHO.
- Public Health Concerns: Health professionals warn that disengaging from the WHO could compromise the U.S.’s ability to respond to international health threats, potentially endangering domestic public health.
Global Reactions to U.S. Withdrawal from WHO
The U.S. decision to leave the WHO has triggered a strong international response. Several countries and organizations have expressed concerns about the potential impact on global health security.
European Union: EU officials have criticized the move, calling it a setback for international cooperation in tackling health crises. They have urged the U.S. to reconsider and continue supporting WHO-led health initiatives.
China: As the second-largest contributor to WHO, China may increase its financial and strategic influence within the organization. Analysts predict this could shift the balance of power in global health governance.
United Nations: UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed disappointment, emphasizing the critical role the WHO plays in disease prevention and response.
Developing Nations: Many low-income countries that rely on WHO funding for vaccinations, maternal health, and disease eradication fear the financial void left by the U.S. exit will have severe consequences.
Health Experts: Global health professionals have warned that weakening WHO’s financial structure may hinder future pandemic preparedness, leaving the world more vulnerable to health crises.
Future Prospects
Despite the formal notification, there remains a window for reversal. The withdrawal process mandates a one-year notice period, during which diplomatic efforts may influence the final outcome. President Trump has indicated a willingness to reconsider the decision if substantial reforms are implemented within the WHO.
The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO represents a pivotal moment in global health relations. As the situation evolves, the international community will closely monitor the implications for health initiatives worldwide and the potential for renewed collaboration.
