The US decision to leave the WHO: Global consequences and international reactions
Donald Trump signs order for US withdrawal from WHO. The economic, health and geopolitical consequences of the decision
The US decision to leave the WHO: Global consequences and international reactions
Donald Trump, on his first day of his second term as President of the United States, signed an oExecutive Order to Initiate the United States' Withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO)The decision, widely announced during the election campaign, has generated concerned reactions from governments, international organizations and public health experts all over the world.
WHO and the Role of the United States
THEWHO, founded in 1948, is a UN agency tasked with coordinate the international response to health emergencies, promote vaccination campaigns and improve global health. The United States has historically been the agency's largest funder, contributing approximately 20% of its annual budget. Between 2022 and 2023, they provided more than $1,2 billion in mandatory and voluntary funding.
Trump's decision marks a turning point, motivated by accusations of mismanagement of the Covid-19 pandemic by the WHO, and by an alleged excessive influence of China on the organization. Trump also complained that the U.S. share of funding was disproportionate compared to that of other countries, particularly China.
The reactions of the Organizations and Europe
WHO expressed regret for the decision, hoping for a reconsideration by the United States.We hope that the United States will reconsider and we are ready to talk to maintain a partnership for the benefit of global health.“, the organization declared from Geneva.
The European Union reacted with concern, underlining the importance of international cooperation to address global health threats. “Pandemic resilience requires a concerted effort”, said a spokeswoman for the European Commission, calling on the United States to reassess the decision before it becomes effective in January 2026.
Economic and operational consequences
If the decision is confirmed, theUS exit will have serious economic consequences for WHOThe funds guaranteed by the United States until 2025 will have to be replaced by greater contributions from other countries, but The economic and political crisis in some key nations makes it unlikely that the EU or others can fill the void left by the United States. This could force WHO to reduce its core activities, including outbreak surveillance, health data collection and emergency response programmes.
Additionally, many collaborations between WHO and US agencies, such as the CDC and FDA, that provide crucial scientific and technical expertise will be severed. The 72 WHO-affiliated research centers in the United States could also lose their contracts and funding.
Geopolitical and scientific implications
US withdrawal could increase China's influence over WHO, making it more difficult to balance geopolitical forces in the organization. On the scientific front, the United States’ isolation from the WHO’s global network could slow access to critical information about emerging epidemics and new health threats.
Experts also fear a direct impact on global health security.Decision weakens US influence, increases risk of deadly pandemics“, warned a former U.S. health official. The current outbreak of avian influenza (H5N1) is cited as an example of how global cooperation is essential to prevent health catastrophes.
Possible revisions to the executive order
The decision to withdraw from the WHO could face internal obstacles. Although Republicans control Congress, their majorities are not large enough to guarantee full support for such a controversial choice. Furthermore, the international and domestic pressure could prompt the administration to reevaluate the executive order.
Meanwhile, theWHO continues to reiterate its mission and hopes for a rethink"For over seven decades, we have saved countless lives through partnership with the United States. We are ready to reform and improve, but we need the support of all members to address global challenges.".
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