Last month, the Trump administration officially withdrew the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This move came through an executive order on the first day of the president’s second term.
However, Colorado’s Governor, Jared Polis, sees value in global health partnerships. He announced that Colorado will join the WHO’s Global Outbreak and Response Network. This network aims to improve health science in the state.
California, Illinois, New York, and New York City are also joining the network, which reflects a push from several Democratic leaders who believe in global health collaboration.
Polis expressed his disappointment over the U.S. departure from the WHO. He emphasized that accessing global public health data is crucial, especially since diseases can cross borders easily. According to him, being connected to worldwide health networks will allow Colorado to access vital early-warning systems and expert advice.
In an executive order from January 2025, Trump criticized WHO for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other health crises. He claimed the organization failed to implement necessary reforms and succumbed to political pressures.
Despite the withdrawal, Colorado intends to engage in the WHO network without incurring additional costs. As per Derek Dash, a spokesperson for the governor, this effort will be integrated into existing public health efforts.
Doctors’ Perspectives
Many doctors in Colorado support the state’s decision to join the WHO network. Dr. Michelle Barron, the senior medical director of infection prevention at UCHealth, stressed the importance of global collaboration, especially in tracking emerging diseases. Dr. Sean O’Leary, a pediatrician, agreed, stating that while it’s unfortunate that the U.S. withdrew from WHO, this new step is necessary.
Dr. Rachel Herlihy, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer and State Epidemiologist, highlighted that coordinated global surveillance can help identify health risks much sooner.
The Impact of COVID-19
COVID-19 has taken a heavy toll on Colorado, claiming over 15,000 lives and causing a significant drop in life expectancy—something not seen since World War II. Nationally, more than 1.6 million Americans died due to the virus, the worst toll of any country.
In response to the pandemic, Polis recently helped form the Governors Public Health Alliance, a nonpartisan group aimed at improving health preparedness and coordination across states.
Finding global partnerships in health remains vital. As diseases evolve and spread, staying connected can lead to swifter responses and better outcomes for all.
For further reading, you can explore resources from the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which provide up-to-date information on global health initiatives.
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