WHO reacts as Trump orders US withdrawal

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the decision of the United States (US) to withdraw from the organisation.

Following his inauguration on Monday, Jan 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to begin withdrawing the US from the WHO. 

He noted that the organisation failed to act independently from the “inappropriate political influence of WHO member states” and required “unfairly onerous payments” from the U.S. that were disproportionate to the sums provided by other, larger countries, such as China.

This announcement comes as the US government implements a series of sweeping health policies aimed at addressing domestic challenges. These include reforms in healthcare accessibility, pandemic preparedness, and mental health services expansion.  

In a press statement, the WHO emphasised the longstanding partnership between the Organisation and the US in combating global health threats. 

 “WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans, by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and detecting, preventing, and responding to health emergencies,” part of the statement read.  

The US, a founding member of WHO since 1948, has been instrumental in shaping the Organization’s mission. Over the past seven decades, collaboration has led to landmark achievements such as the eradication of smallpox and the brink of elimination of polio. American institutions have contributed to and benefited from their active engagement with WHO initiatives.  

In recent years, the WHO has undertaken significant reforms to enhance accountability, cost-effectiveness, and operational impact, with notable contributions from the US. These reforms represent the largest transformation in WHO’s history and are designed to address emerging global health challenges more efficiently.  

Despite President Trump’s announcement, WHO remains hopeful that the US will reconsider its decision. 

“We look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and wellbeing of millions of people around the globe,” the statement concluded.