The move by the U.S. could have major implications for global health programs.

    US withdrawal from WHO: In a bold and controversial decision, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a shift in the country’s global health strategy. The withdrawal, which follows a one-year notice period, has raised significant concerns among health experts, international organizations, and global leaders.

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    Trump Criticizes WHO Handling of COVID-19 and Political Influence

    President Trump accused the WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic and claimed the organization had been influenced by political pressure from larger member states, such as China. He argued that the U.S. had been unfairly burdened with “unjust” financial contributions, with the U.S. contributing approximately 18% of the WHO’s overall budget—far more than other countries like China.

    Impact on Global Health Programs

    The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO could have serious repercussions for global health programs, particularly those dealing with tuberculosis—one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases—and HIV/AIDS. Experts, including Lawrence Gostin from Georgetown University, warn that the move could weaken international efforts to combat health emergencies, potentially leading to greater global instability and the risk of future pandemics.

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    WHO and Global Leaders Respond to the Withdrawal

    The WHO has expressed regret over the U.S. decision, emphasizing the need for continued global health cooperation. Germany, a key donor to the organization, along with the European Union, have urged the U.S. to reconsider the withdrawal. China has also weighed in, with its foreign ministry stressing the importance of strengthening global health governance and supporting the WHO.

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    Impact on U.S. Health Strategy and International Collaborations

    The U.S. government’s move to withdraw includes ceasing negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty, recalling U.S. personnel working with the organization, and reassessing the 2024 Global Health Security Strategy. This decision comes after previous efforts to disengage from the WHO during Trump’s first term, which were ultimately halted by President Joe Biden’s administration.

    Concerns Over Long-Term Consequences

    The WHO is the United States’ top financial partner in global health, and experts are warning that the withdrawal could create significant gaps in health initiatives. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the next-largest financial supporter, has stated it will continue to back the WHO, but there are concerns about how the absence of U.S. support will impact global health efforts.

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