In a decisive move on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to commence the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). This action, set to take effect over a 12-month period, will halt U.S. financial contributions and recall American personnel from the organization.
President Trump criticized the WHO for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises, asserting that the organization operates under “inappropriate political influence” and imposes “unfairly onerous payments” on the U.S. compared to other nations, notably China.
The United States has been the WHO’s largest financial contributor, accounting for approximately 18% of its funding. The cessation of U.S. support raises concerns about the potential impact on critical health initiatives, including programs targeting tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and emergency responses.
This decision mirrors a similar attempt by President Trump in 2020 to exit the WHO, a move that was subsequently reversed by President Joe Biden upon taking office. The current withdrawal process mandates a 12-month notice and fulfillment of financial obligations before the U.S. can formally exit the organization.
Health experts have expressed apprehension regarding the withdrawal. Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 response coordinator, described the move as a “strategic error,” cautioning that it could create a political vacuum potentially filled by countries like China, thereby increasing their global influence.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing global health challenges and expressed hope for continued partnership with the United States.
