U.S. Officially Withdraws from the World Health Organization, Effective January 2026
in a historic move, the United States has officially notified the United Nations of its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), with the exit set to take effect on january 22, 2026. This decision, announced by President Donald Trump, comes as a culmination of longstanding criticisms of the WHO’s handling of global health crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic that originated in Wuhan, China.
The proclamation follows Trump’s swearing-in for his second term on January 20, 2025. The next day, the WHO expressed regret over the departure of its largest donor country. According to a 1948 joint resolution, the U.S. is required to provide a one-year notice before withdrawing and must continue to fulfill its financial obligations during this period.
The U.S. has been the WHO’s largest contributor, funding approximately 18% of its budget. The organization’s 2024-2025 budget stood at $6.8 billion, though the exact amount the U.S. will pay during its withdrawal process remains unclear.
“I can confirm that we have received a letter from the United States withdrawing from the WHO,” a UN spokesperson stated, adding that the withdrawal will take effect one year from the notice date, January 22, 2025.
experts both within and outside the WHO have raised concerns about the implications of the U.S. exit. They warn that the move coudl jeopardize global health initiatives, particularly efforts to combat tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, which remain among the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.
Trump’s executive order also halts U.S. negotiations on the WHO pandemic Treaty and mandates the recall and reassignment of U.S. personnel collaborating with the organization. Additionally, the U.S. government will seek alternative partners to take over its activities within the WHO.
This decision is not entirely unexpected. Trump had initiated steps to withdraw from the WHO in 2020, citing dissatisfaction with its pandemic response. However, the process was halted when President Joe Biden took office on January 20, 2021.
The withdrawal marks a significant shift in U.S. involvement in global health governance, raising questions about the future of international cooperation in addressing public health emergencies.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| withdrawal date | January 22, 2026 |
| Notice date | January 22, 2025 |
| Reason for Withdrawal | WHO’s mishandling of COVID-19 and othre international health crises |
| U.S. contribution | 18% of WHO’s budget ($6.8 billion for 2024-2025) |
| Implications | Risks to global health initiatives, including TB and HIV/AIDS programs |
As the world grapples with ongoing and emerging health challenges, the U.S.withdrawal from the WHO underscores the complexities of international health diplomacy and the need for robust global partnerships.
For more insights on global health developments, explore the latest updates from the WHO and other international organizations.
U.S.Exit from WHO: Implications for Global Health and International Diplomacy
In a historic move, the United States has officially notified the United Nations of its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), effective January 22, 2026. This decision, announced by President Donald Trump, comes after years of dissatisfaction with the WHO’s handling of global health crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic.to understand the implications of this decision, we spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a global health expert and professor of international relations at Georgetown University.
The Decision to Withdraw: What Prompted It?
Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us. Can you start by explaining what led to the U.S. decision to withdraw from the WHO?
Dr. Carter: certainly.The decision stems from longstanding criticisms of the WHO’s handling of international health crises, particularly its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. President Trump and other U.S. officials have argued that the organization failed to act swiftly and transparently during the pandemic, especially in its dealings with China. This has been a point of contention for years, culminating in the formal withdrawal notice issued in January 2025.
Financial Impact: What Does the U.S. Exit Mean for WHO’s Budget?
Editor: The U.S. has been the WHO’s largest donor, contributing about 18% of its budget. how will this withdrawal affect the organization financially?
Dr.Carter: The financial impact is notable. The WHO’s 2024-2025 budget was $6.8 billion, and losing the U.S. contribution means a ample shortfall. While other countries may step up their contributions, it’s unlikely to fully offset the loss. This could lead to cutbacks in critical programs,particularly those addressing infectious diseases like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
Global Health Initiatives: What Are the Risks?
Editor: What specific global health initiatives are at risk because of this decision?
Dr. Carter: The U.S. exit poses a threat to several key initiatives.Programs aimed at combating infectious diseases, such as TB and HIV/AIDS, could face funding shortages. Additionally, the U.S. has been a major player in global vaccination efforts and emergency response systems. Without its support, the WHO’s ability to coordinate and fund these initiatives could be severely hampered.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for International Health Diplomacy?
Editor: With the U.S. stepping back, what does this mean for the future of international health diplomacy?
Dr. Carter: The U.S.withdrawal signals a significant shift in global health governance. It raises questions about the future of international cooperation in addressing public health emergencies. While other countries may fill the void to some extent, the absence of the U.S. could lead to fragmented efforts and reduced efficiency in responding to future crises. It also underscores the need for reforms within the WHO to rebuild trust and ensure more effective governance.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the U.S. Withdrawal
Editor: What are the main takeaways from this decision?
Dr. Carter: The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO is a pivotal moment in global health diplomacy. It highlights the challenges of international cooperation in addressing public health crises and underscores the need for robust partnerships. While the financial and programmatic impacts are concerning, this also presents an possibility for the WHO to reform and strengthen its role in global health governance. The world will be watching closely to see how other nations and organizations step up to fill the void left by the U.S.