The United States is poised to formally withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) in January 2026, following a recent communication from President Donald Trump. This decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing relationship between the US and global health initiatives, as the WHO has been a critical player in managing health crises worldwide.
In a statement made by UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq, he confirmed that the official notice from the US government, dated January 22, 2025, had been received. This formal request sets in motion the country’s exit from the organization, with the withdrawal taking effect one year later. Within this framework, Trump has also instructed Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the director of the Office of Management and Budget to halt any further financial support or resource allocation to the WHO.
The impending US withdrawal raises concerns about the future of global health governance. The WHO, considered one of the most crucial organizations in public health, stands to lose its largest financial contributor, which typically provides approximately 18 percent of its annual funding—about 1 million during the years 2024 to 2025. Following the US is China, whose contributions amount to approximately 1 million. Experts warn that this funding gap may hinder the WHO’s ability to effectively combat ongoing health crises, such as tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, and may impact efforts to counter future pandemics.
Trump has previously criticized the WHO for what he deemed a poor management of the COVID-19 pandemic during his first term, leading to an earlier, but ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to withdraw in July 2020. After losing the subsequent election to Joe Biden, the previous administration’s withdrawal attempt was promptly rescinded.
In response to the announced departure, the WHO expressed regret, highlighting the organization’s critical role in sustaining global health security. The agency hopes the US will reconsider its decision, emphasizing the potential repercussions for health initiatives worldwide.
The legality of Trump’s unilateral decision remains a point of contention, as the US’s entry into the WHO was established by joint congressional resolutions in 1948. Legal experts assert that congressional approval may be necessary for the withdrawal to be valid. The implications of this withdrawal could lead to significant legal challenges, given the bipartisan nature of health initiatives and the essential role the WHO plays in responding to global health issues.
In light of these developments, the broader international community is observing the unfolding situation with keen interest, emphasizing the need for collaboration in addressing global health challenges.
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