The United States is officially withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision follows a letter from President Donald Trump, stating that the US intends to leave by January 2026. The announcement came from UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq, confirming the timeline for withdrawal.
Trump, on his first day in office, aimed to stop US funding for the WHO, claiming the organization mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic. He directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to pause any future financial support to the WHO. Following this directive, all US government staff involved with the WHO have been called back, halting participation in discussions about a global pandemic treaty.
The US has been a key financial supporter of the WHO, contributing about 18% of its funding, which amounted to roughly $261 million for 2024 and 2025. Losing this vital funding could hinder the WHO’s ability to tackle serious health issues, including pandemics, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.
This isn’t Trump’s first attempt to withdraw. He tried in 2020, but after losing the election to Joe Biden, that effort was reversed. Many health experts criticized Trump’s response to the pandemic, noting that it contributed to significant loss of life in the US.
In light of the withdrawal, the WHO expressed regret and emphasized the importance of its work for global health, including the health of Americans. They hope the US will reconsider its decision and maintain a partnership that benefits global health.
The legality of Trump’s withdrawal could be contested. The US joined the WHO through a Congressional resolution in 1948, prompting questions about whether a president can unilaterally withdraw without Congressional approval. Legal experts have pointed out that this decision may face challenges in court. Some, like Lawrence Gostin, a health law expert, are even considering legal action against it.
The future of US involvement in global health efforts hangs in the balance as discussions continue over the implications of this withdrawal.
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News, Coronavirus pandemic, Donald Trump, Health, World Health Organization, United States, US & Canada
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