•Director-General, WHO, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus
The World Health Organisation has expressed regret over the announcement that the United States intends to withdraw from the organisation, reports The PUNCH.
The global health body pleaded with the US to reconsider the decision.
WHO made this known in a statement on its X account today, emphasising its crucial role in protecting global health, including that of Americans.
The organisation highlighted its work in addressing the root causes of diseases, strengthening health systems, and responding to health emergencies, often in challenging environments where others cannot operate.
Yesterday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the United States to withdraw from WHO.
Speaking at the White House shortly after his inauguration, Trump criticised the organisation, stating that the US was paying far more than China and declaring, “World Health ripped us off.”
This marks the second attempt by the US to exit the global health body. During Trump’s first term, the administration issued a similar notice, accusing WHO of being overly influenced by China during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. That decision was later reversed by former President Joe Biden’s administration.
In the new executive order, Trump directed federal agencies to “pause the future transfer of any United States Government funds, support, or resources to the WHO” and to “identify credible and transparent United States and international partners to assume necessary activities previously undertaken by the WHO.”
The administration also announced plans to review and rescind Biden’s 2024 US Global Health Security Strategy, which aimed to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats, “as soon as practicable.”
Meanwhile, WHO, in its statement, emphasised the United States’ significant contributions since it became a founding member in 1948.
The organisation noted that US participation has been instrumental in shaping global health policies and initiatives, citing joint achievements such as eradicating smallpox and nearly eradicating polio.
“The United States was a founding member of WHO in 1948 and has played an active role in shaping and governing WHO’s work alongside 193 other Member States. Together, we have saved countless lives and protected people from health threats. American institutions have greatly contributed to and benefited from WHO membership,” the statement said.
WHO also pointed to reforms implemented over the past seven years to enhance accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact, underscoring its commitment to improvement.
The statement concluded: “We hope the United States will reconsider and look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain this partnership, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe.”
