
Former President Donald Trump’s executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) for the second time has sparked global concern and debate over its implications for international health partnerships.
At a Glance
- Trump signed an executive order to begin withdrawing the US from WHO, citing mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic
- The US was the largest funder of WHO, contributing nearly one-fifth of its $6.8 billion budget in 2023
- Public health experts warn the withdrawal could negatively impact global health efforts and US leadership
- WHO expressed regret over the decision and hopes the US will reconsider
- The legality and process of unilateral withdrawal without Congressional approval are under debate
Trump’s Executive Order and Its Implications
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global health community, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order to initiate the withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This marks the second time Trump has attempted to disengage the US from the international health body, citing concerns over the organization’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and alleged political influence from other member states.
The decision has raised alarms among public health experts who warn of potential negative impacts on global health efforts and US leadership in health and science. The United States has been the largest financial contributor to WHO, providing almost one-fifth of its $6.8 billion budget in 2023. The withdrawal would pause this crucial funding, potentially exacerbating WHO’s financial difficulties at a time when the organization has recently made an emergency funding appeal for $1.5 billion.
World Health Organization urges Trump to reconsider order for US to withdraw from WHO. The newly sworn in president says “World Health ripped us off. Everybody rips off the United States. It’s not going to happen anymore.” https://t.co/W6Lv3wuPlq
— John Gravois (@Grav1) January 21, 2025
WHO’s Response and the Importance of US Partnership
The World Health Organization has expressed deep regret over the United States’ announcement of its intent to withdraw. The organization emphasized its crucial role in global health and security, including for Americans, by addressing disease causes, strengthening health systems, and managing health emergencies.
“It’s a cataclysmic Presidential decision. Withdrawal is a grievous wound to world health, but a still deeper wound to the US,” Lawrence Gostin said.
WHO highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the organization and the United States, which spans over 70 years. This partnership has achieved significant health milestones, such as the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio. The organization stressed its hope that the United States will reconsider its decision and remains open to constructive dialogue to maintain their partnership for global health benefits.
Concerns Over Global Health Leadership and Funding
Public health experts have voiced serious concerns about the potential consequences of the US withdrawal from WHO. Dr. David Hamer warned that the move could worsen WHO’s chronic underfunding and impact global public health efforts. He cautioned that reduced WHO capacity could slow responses to future health crises, potentially affecting the United States as well.
Legal expert Lawrence Gostin criticized Trump’s order as legally flawed, noting it violates the one-year notice period and financial obligations mandated by Congress. Gostin warned that the withdrawal could lead to reduced global health funding, affecting programs for HIV, polio, and health emergencies.
Debate Over Withdrawal Process and Future Implications
The executive order has sparked debate over whether Trump can unilaterally withdraw the US from WHO without Congressional approval. While some supporters of Trump celebrated the withdrawal, viewing WHO as a problematic organization, others question the legality and process of such a move. The Republican control of Congress may facilitate the process, but the debate continues.
“They wanted us back so badly so we’ll see what happens,” US President Donald Trump said.