The US has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a significant shift in global health governance. This decision, made by President Donald Trump, was based on criticisms of the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, perceived as being too 'China-centric'. The US Department of Health and Human Services cited concerns over the WHO's 'mishandling' of the pandemic, its inability to reform, and political influence from member states. However, the WHO has refuted these claims, emphasizing its global efforts in combating polio, HIV/AIDS, maternal mortality, and its international treaty on tobacco control. The organization's director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed disappointment, highlighting the withdrawal as a loss for both the US and the world. The US, traditionally a major donor, has not paid its fees for 2024 and 2025, leading to job losses and a suspension of US engagements with the WHO. The US government has terminated all funding, recalled personnel, and suspended hundreds of engagements, citing a focus on safeguarding American health and safety. Despite this, the US Department of Health and Human Services plans to maintain bilateral relations with other countries for disease surveillance and pathogen sharing, though specific details remain undisclosed. The withdrawal has sparked debates about the future of global health cooperation and the role of the WHO in addressing pandemics. Critics argue that the US response to COVID-19 was slow and flawed, while others question the impact of political influence on public health policies. The US's decision to withdraw from the WHO has raised concerns about the potential loss of global health leadership and the ability to combat future pandemics effectively.
