On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), reigniting a controversial decision that experts argue poses risks to global health and security. This move, which echoes an attempt made during Trump's first term, is rooted in criticisms of WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, alleged bureaucratic inefficiencies and unequal financial contributions by member states to run the global health organisation. However, holding the global body accountable and making it more efficient is one thing, while withdrawing from it entirely is another. Such a withdrawal could seriously undermine the effectiveness of the WHO and have broader implications for international public health collaboration.
In an interconnected world, the health of one nation inevitably impacts others. Infectious diseases do not respect borders, and effective responses require robust global collaboration.By withdrawing from this vital global health institution, the U.S. not only abdicates its responsibility as a global leader but also undermines the collective capacity of the international community to address critical health challenges. Moreover, it sends a troubling signal about its commitment to such international cooperation, raising concerns about the future of multilateralism in addressing global health challenges.
The United States has been a founding member of the WHO since 1948, playing a pivotal role in its governance and financing. Over the past decade, the U.S. has been the largest donor, contributing annually from $100 to $122 million and providing nearly $1.3 billion in voluntary funding during the 2022-2023 period. Without U.S. involvement, the organisation may face significant financial and operational challenges, potentially compromising its ability to respond to health emergencies in vulnerable regions.
Experts figured out that the U.S.'s exit from WHO could weaken international efforts to address pressing health issues such as pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-related health crises. The WHO coordinates worldwide vaccine programmes, determines annual influenza and COVID-19 vaccine strains, and has been instrumental in eradicating smallpox and combating polio worldwide. Moreover, the organisation's ability to collect and share outbreak data enables countries to prepare for and respond to emerging health threats effectively. The U.S.'s withdrawal means it will not have access to the WHO's data of emerging global health threats, which could undermine the US's as well as global health security.
The legality of Trump's unilateral decision to withdraw remains contentious. According to the U.S.'s agreement with WHO, any withdrawal requires one year's notice and settlement of outstanding dues. As this agreement was ratified through a joint act of Congress in 1948, there is debate over whether an executive order alone suffices. However, with both Congress and the Senate currently controlled by Republicans, Trump's decision is unlikely to face significant legislative opposition.
In a word, the USA's absence from the WHO weakens a vital pillar of international collaboration. In an era when collective action is crucial to address complex global public health threats, Trump administration's move risks leaving the world and the U.S. less prepared for the challenges ahead.
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