Trump to Withdraw U.S. from WHO

President Donald Trump has taken a decisive step to fulfill his pre-election promise of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization ( WHO ). After his inauguration, Trump issued an executive order formally beginning the process of terminating U.S. membership in the global health body.

The decision stems from long-standing frustrations with the WHO, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump has repeatedly criticized the organization for delays in pandemic response and alleged bias towards China.

REASONS BEHIND THE WITHDRAWAL

The U.S. cited multiple concerns in its notice of withdrawal, including:

COVID-19 Response Failures:

1. Alleged mishandling of the pandemic, which originated in Wuhan, China.
2. Criticism of the WHO’s slow response and lack of transparency.

Political Influence:

1. Accusations of WHO being “controlled by China” and failing to demonstrate independence from political pressure.

Unfair Financial Contributions:

1. The U.S. argued that its payments to the WHO were disproportionately high compared to other nations.
2. With a population of 1.4 billion, China reportedly contributes nearly 90% less than the U.S. despite having three times the population.

KEY PROVISIONS IN THE ORDER

President Trump’s order outlines immediate measures to disengage from the WHO:

Halting U.S. Funding:

1. All future U.S. government funds, support, or resources allocated to the WHO will be paused.

Reassigning Personnel:

U.S. government staff and contractors working with the WHO will be recalled and reassigned.

Identifying New Partners:

1. The administration will seek credible and transparent international partners to take over activities previously managed by the WHO.

Revising Health Security Strategy:

1. The White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy is tasked with replacing the 2024 U.S. Global Health Security Strategy.

FINANCIAL AND STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS

The U.S. withdrawal could significantly impact global health initiatives. The country has historically been one of the largest contributors to the WHO. Critics argue that the move might weaken international cooperation on health crises.

The Trump administration emphasized the need for a reformed global health system. They asserted that funds should support partners better aligned with U.S. values and interests.