Source: The Washington Post / Getty
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the international community, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order for the U.S. exit from the World Health Organization (WHO).
This decision was made on his first day back in office and marks the latest step in his ongoing skepticism of global organizations.
Trump was an open critic of the WHO during his last term. His complaints particularly stemmed from the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trump accused the organization of mishandling the initial outbreak. Tensions grew as he continuously claimed the WHO was overly influenced by China. Also, that the WHO aided its efforts to “mislead the world” about the origins of COVID. Ultimately, his administration suspended U.S. funding to the WHO in 2020. This further asserted that the global body had failed to hold China accountable for its role in the spread of the virus.
So, what are the ramifications of this change?
First, experts warn it could undermine international efforts to combat future pandemics and other global health threats. According to Reuters, programs across the organization are now at risk. Notably, those tackling tuberculosis, the world’s biggest infectious disease killer, as well as HIV/AIDS.
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The U.S. has been one of the organization’s largest contributors, both financially and in terms of leadership. American participation in WHO initiatives has been seen as crucial to addressing challenges that transcend borders. The WHO’s ability to coordinate swift responses to such emergencies may be hindered by the country’s absence.
Second, public health advocates have argued that the U.S. withdrawal could isolate the country from vital information and collaboration needed to address future health crises.
“This is the darkest day for global health I’ve ever experienced,” said Lawrence Gostin, a professor of global health at Georgetown University in Washington and director of the WHO Collaborating Center on National and Global Health Law. “Trump could be sowing the seeds for the next pandemic.”
Overall, the withdrawal raises serious questions about the future of global health cooperation. The WHO, founded in 1948, has played a central role in combating health crises and setting global health standards. Trump’s decision to withdraw from the WHO underscores the deepening divide in global health diplomacy.
Some remaining participants responded to the news.
After the U.S., the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is the second largest donor to the WHO. Its chief executive Mark Suzman said on X that the foundation would continue to make the case to strengthen not weaken the WHO.
The next-largest state donor is Germany. Germany’s health minister said on Tuesday, Berlin hoped to talk Trump out of the move.
China’s foreign ministry said the WHO’s role in global health governance should only be strengthened, not weakened.
“China will continue to support the WHO in fulfilling its responsibilities, and deepen international public health cooperation,” said Guo Jiakun, a ministry spokesperson.
Trump’s decision to withdraw from the WHO underscores the deepening divide in global health diplomacy. The full consequences of this move will likely unfold in the coming years as the world faces ongoing and emerging health threats.
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