The United States has officially exited the World Health Organization, completing a yearlong withdrawal process initiated by President Donald Trump through an executive order signed last year, the administration announced Thursday.
The decision was confirmed by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of State, marking a major shift in U.S. involvement in global public health efforts.
Administration Criticizes WHO’s Role and Leadership
A senior HHS official said the WHO had “strayed from its core mission” and repeatedly acted against U.S. interests, with much of the criticism centered on the agency’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The administration argued the WHO delayed declaring COVID-19 a global health emergency and unfairly criticized U.S. policies, including early travel restrictions. Officials also pointed to what they described as unequal financial contributions from member nations and noted that the WHO has never had an American director-general despite significant U.S. funding.
Public Health Experts Warn of Consequences
Health experts have pushed back strongly, warning that the withdrawal could weaken the nation’s ability to respond to future health threats.
Ronald Nahass, president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, called the move “shortsighted and misguided,” emphasizing that global coordination is essential to monitor emerging diseases such as Ebola and to track seasonal flu strains. He warned that leaving the WHO could also disrupt efforts to properly match flu vaccines to circulating variants.
“Global cooperation is not a luxury; it is a biological necessity,” Nahass said.
U.S. Plans to Rely on Bilateral Efforts
Administration officials said the U.S. will continue to play a leading role in global health through other channels. HHS currently has more than 2,000 staff members working in 63 countries and maintains bilateral agreements with hundreds of nations.
Officials said alternative plans are in place to handle disease surveillance, diagnostics and outbreak response without WHO involvement.
Outstanding Dues and Next Steps
Under United Nations rules, countries must give one year’s notice and settle outstanding dues to leave the WHO. While the U.S. met the notice requirement, it currently owes more than $270 million for the 2024–2025 period, according to the U.N. The administration disputes that it is legally required to pay the balance.
The WHO said the U.S. withdrawal will be addressed at its upcoming Executive Board meeting in early February. The Trump administration has said there are no plans to rejoin the organization or participate as an observer.
For more health-related news and recommendations, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.