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On his first full day back in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order initiating the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). This action, reminiscent of his 2020 attempt, halts U.S. funding to the WHO and begins the process of recalling American personnel from the organization.
The executive order directs Secretary of State Marco Rubio to formally notify the United Nations and the WHO of the U.S. intent to withdraw, a process that will take effect in one year, Politico reported. In the interim, all U.S. government funds and support to the WHO are to be paused immediately.
"By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered...pause the future transfer of any United States Government funds, support, or resources to the WHO," Trump's executive order reads.
Trump’s decision stems from longstanding criticisms of the WHO’s handling of global health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. He has accused the organization of mismanagement and undue political influence, asserting that the WHO failed to enact necessary reforms.
The World Health Organization has expressed regret over the new administration's decision, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges. In a statement, the WHO highlighted its role in combating diseases worldwide and urged the United States to reconsider its position for the benefit of global health.
"We hope the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe," the agency said.
Germany’s Health Minister, Karl Lauterbach, announced intentions to lobby President Trump to reverse the withdrawal, citing it as a significant setback in the fight against health crises.
This decision marks a pivotal shift in U.S. foreign policy. The United States has been one of the leading financial contributors to the health organization, providing about 25% of the WHO's budget--from $163 million to $816 million in recent years, Politico noted.
However, Trump believes the organization has been demanding "demand unfairly onerous payments" from the U.S.--90% more than what China contributes to WHO, despite its population being 300% more than the U.S.
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