The United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a significant shift for the global health agency that has long relied on American support.
The decision follows an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump a year ago, citing concerns that the WHO was overly ‘China-centric’ during the Covid-19 pandemic. The US Department of Health and Human Services stated that the withdrawal was due to the organization’s alleged mishandling of the pandemic, inability to enact reforms, and political influence from member states.
The WHO has strongly rejected these claims. Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the withdrawal as a loss both for the US and the international community, highlighting the organization’s work on combating polio, HIV/AIDS, maternal mortality, and global tobacco control initiatives.
In response to the Covid-19 crisis, WHO member states negotiated an international pandemic treaty aimed at better preparing for and responding to future pandemics, including equitable distribution of vaccines and treatments. The treaty was finalized in April last year by all member states except the United States.
Washington, historically one of the WHO’s largest donors, has not paid its dues for 2024 and 2025, which has already resulted in significant job losses at the organization. While WHO lawyers indicate the US is legally obligated to pay arrears estimated at $260 million, US officials have said they see no reason to do so.
The US has formally ended all funding to the WHO, recalled its personnel and contractors from Geneva and other offices worldwide, and suspended hundreds of engagements with the organization. A joint statement from US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the WHO for allegedly abandoning its core mission and acting against US interests. They also highlighted symbolic grievances, such as the failure to return the American flag at WHO headquarters.
Going forward, the US plans to limit its engagement with the WHO strictly to manage its withdrawal and safeguard the health of Americans. Officials indicated that bilateral partnerships with other countries will continue for disease surveillance and pathogen sharing, though specific partners have not yet been disclosed. Work on global health initiatives, such as combating polio and HIV, will reportedly continue through NGOs and faith-based organizations, though details are still emerging.
Following the withdrawal order, the WHO expressed hope that the US would reconsider, emphasizing that collaboration has saved countless lives and protected populations worldwide. The matter is set to be discussed at the WHO board meeting scheduled from 2 to 7 February.
