- President Trump reinitiated the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO).
- The decision has drawn criticism from health experts and international allies.
- Concerns arise about its timing and impact on global health efforts.
- Experts warn that it may bolster China’s influence within the WHO.
- Historical context highlights a previous attempt reversed by President Biden in 2021.
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). The decision, announced on January 20, 2025, during his second term, has sparked widespread debate, especially regarding its timing amid ongoing global health challenges. Citing WHO’s alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and accusations of political bias, the administration justified the move as a measure to demand accountability and reform.
Trump reiterated his dissatisfaction with the financial contributions disparity, noting that the U.S. has been the organization’s largest donor. “It is unfair for American taxpayers to shoulder the bulk of the funding while other nations benefit disproportionately,” he stated.
Implications for Global Health
The U.S. withdrawal raises significant concerns among global health experts. The country has historically contributed about 18% of the WHO’s budget, which funds crucial initiatives such as vaccine distribution, disease surveillance, and health emergency responses. Experts warn that the cessation of U.S. funding could hinder these efforts, potentially jeopardizing progress in combating diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.
Dr. Lawrence Gostin of Georgetown University called the decision “catastrophic,” explaining that the absence of U.S. leadership creates a vacuum likely to be filled by China. “This move not only weakens global health initiatives but also diminishes the United States’ role as a global health leader,” he added.
The WHO expressed regret over the U.S. decision, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration to address global health crises. The organization’s statement underscored the pivotal role the U.S. has played in advancing health security worldwide.
U.S. allies and health organizations have echoed these concerns. Elizabeth Cousens, CEO of the UN Foundation, described the withdrawal as a “short-sighted decision that jeopardizes decades of progress in global health.” Former CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden stated, “This decision puts lives at risk both domestically and internationally.”
Historical Context and Political Dimensions
The Trump administration’s decision to withdraw from the WHO mirrors a similar attempt in 2020. That withdrawal process, initiated during Trump’s first term, was reversed by President Joe Biden in 2021, who reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to global health partnerships. Biden’s administration argued that reforming the WHO from within was a more constructive approach than withdrawal.
This renewed withdrawal decision underscores ongoing partisan divides over the U.S. role in international organizations. While Trump supporters view the move as a necessary stand for American interests, critics argue it isolates the U.S. and undermines its leadership on the global stage.
Future Prospects
As the withdrawal process unfolds over the next 12 months, its long-term consequences remain uncertain. Many experts believe that rejoining the WHO would require significant diplomatic efforts and bipartisan support. Meanwhile, the global health community faces the challenge of addressing funding shortfalls and operational disruptions caused by the U.S. exit.
The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO marks a pivotal moment in global health governance. While the Trump administration views the decision as a step toward accountability, critics contend that it weakens global health efforts and diminishes U.S. influence. The true impact of this decision will depend on future political developments and the global response to this unprecedented move.