Trump Orders US to Withdraw from WHO, Set to Reshape Global Health Dynamics

Washington, D.C.: In a groundbreaking move, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to begin the process of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organisation (WHO), an unprecedented decision that would reshape the landscape of global health. The order was issued only hours after he took the oath of office, signaling a sharp break from long-established diplomatic and health-related norms.

Since its inception in 1948, the U.S. has been a key member and largest contributor to the WHO, providing around 18% of its overall funding. The decision to leave comes after Trump criticized the WHO for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the situation in Wuhan, China. Trump’s administration also voiced concerns over the WHO’s failure to adopt reforms, citing perceived political bias and a lack of independence in its decision-making.

If enacted, the move will see the U.S. no longer contribute financially to WHO activities, withdrawing from its core budget which could impact the organization’s ability to respond to future global health emergencies. Experts warn that the U.S. could become increasingly isolated, losing access to crucial health networks, such as those determining annual flu vaccine compositions.

This action follows a failed attempt in 2020, when Trump first initiated withdrawal plans after blaming the WHO for mismanaging the pandemic. However, Biden halted this during his first day in office. Now, with Trump still at the helm, the U.S. is poised to become the only major power not part of the 194-nation health body.

The move also includes halting U.S. negotiations on a pandemic preparedness agreement, designed to enhance global collaboration on data sharing, vaccine supply chains, and surveillance. Critics argue the loss of U.S. influence could hinder global health responses to infectious diseases and public health crises. The WHO was founded in large part by the United States, and its mission remains central to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide.

The executive order also addresses payment discrepancies, highlighting China's disproportionately lower contributions relative to its large population. It’s a move that will likely ripple through international diplomatic and health relations in the coming months.

As global health leaders brace for the fallout, Trump's order sets the stage for dramatic shifts in the future of pandemic response, collaboration, and global health diplomacy.