WASHINGTON 鈥� President Donald Trump issued an to begin withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) on his first day back in office. This marks the second attempt to leave the global health agency in 5 years, a move that experts say could significantly impact disease response and global health initiatives.
What does the executive order state?
In his first Oval Office appearance of his second term, Trump signed an executive order outlining steps to initiate the U.S. withdrawal from WHO.
The executive order calls for halting future U.S. funding to the organization, reassigning federal personnel and contractors working with WHO, and identifying alternative partners to take on roles previously handled by the agency.
This is the second time Trump has announced plans to cut ties with WHO. In July 2020, his administration formally notified the U.N. of plans to withdraw, . President Joe Biden reversed this decision on his first day in office in 2021. Trump鈥檚 recent order revives the effort.
What is WHO, and why does it matter?
The WHO is the United Nations鈥� health agency responsible for coordinating international responses to health crises, including pandemics, vaccine distribution and disease surveillance, . The U.S. has been one of its largest donors, contributing $160 million to $815 million annually over the past decade, the Associated Press reports.
The decision to withdraw from WHO could affect U.S. agencies like the CDC, which rely on WHO-coordinated programs, including flu vaccine development and access to genetic databases, the Associated Press reports.
Why is President Trump withdrawing from WHO?
, President Trump cited dissatisfaction with the WHO鈥檚 handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its governance as reasons for the withdrawal. His executive order referenced the organization鈥檚 alleged missteps during the pandemic and called for reforms to address issues of transparency and independence from political influence.
Can the U.S. leave WHO?
The withdrawal process requires congressional approval and the U.S. must fulfill its financial obligations to the organization, according to the Associated Press. A 1948 resolution mandates a 1-year notice before the U.S. can officially exit WHO.
What鈥檚 next for global health?
Without U.S. support, WHO may face significant funding gaps, jeopardizing programs targeting polio eradication, maternal health and epidemic surveillance, according to the Associated Press. This could impact the agency鈥檚 ability to coordinate global responses to health crises, leaving vulnerable populations at greater risk.
over the decision and emphasized its decades-long partnership with the U.S., highlighting joint achievements like the eradication of smallpox and near-eradication of polio.
