US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to initiate the withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This significant move took place on Trump's first day in office, marking a pivotal moment in US international relations and global health policy. The decision follows Trump's longstanding criticism of the WHO, particularly in its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, which he accused of being biased towards China.
The United States has been a major financial contributor to the WHO, providing nearly one-fifth of the agency's $6.8 billion annual budget as of 2023. Under the Biden administration, the US was the largest funder of the organization. However, Trump's executive order cites "unfairly onerous payments" as a primary reason for the withdrawal. Trump previously criticized the WHO as "China-centric" and expressed dissatisfaction with its guidance during the pandemic.
This marks the second occasion on which Trump has ordered a withdrawal from the Geneva-based institution. During his previous term, he initiated a similar process but was later reversed by President Joe Biden. Trump hinted at the possibility of rejoining the WHO in the future, stating:
"They wanted us back so badly so we'll see what happens" – Donald Trump
Public health experts have expressed concern over the implications of this decision. They warn that it could have significant consequences for global health and American influence in international health affairs. Lawrence Gostin, a global public health expert and professor at Georgetown University, described the withdrawal as:
"It's a cataclysmic presidential decision. Withdrawal is a grievous wound to world health, but a still deeper wound to the US" – Lawrence Gostin
Similarly, Ashish Jha highlighted potential repercussions for both global health initiatives and US scientific leadership:
"harm not only the health of people around the world, but also US leadership and scientific prowess" – Ashish Jha
The executive order comes as part of Trump's broader criticism of international bodies and agreements that he perceives as unfavorable to US interests. He approved the document with a remark on its significance:
"Oooh, that's a big one" – Donald Trump
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