The United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), completing the process after over a year of warnings and discussions. The move comes as the Trump administration criticized the global body for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. US President Donald Trump had expressed his intention to leave WHO on the first day of his 2025 presidency through an executive order, emphasizing that the organization had failed to address pandemic management effectively. According to a US Department of Health and Foreign Affairs press release, the country has now finalized all steps necessary for full withdrawal.
US officials stated that they have no plans to participate as observers or rejoin WHO, preferring instead to work directly with other countries on disease monitoring and public health priorities. Legally, the US was required to provide a one-year notice and settle approximately $260 million in dues before leaving, which Washington confirms has been paid. The withdrawal has led to significant budget cuts and operational reductions within WHO, which previously relied on the US for nearly 18% of its funding. Experts warn that the exit could have lasting economic and operational impacts on the global health organization.
The decision has also sparked debates over international cooperation, with some advocating reforms within WHO while others support alternative mechanisms for global health governance. The US removal of its flag from WHO headquarters in Geneva and similar actions at other international institutions marks a historic shift in American engagement with global health organizations, potentially reshaping international public health efforts in the coming years.
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