The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the organization, urging the country to reconsider.
In a statement shared on its X account on Tuesday, WHO emphasized its vital role in safeguarding global health, including the health of Americans. The organization highlighted its efforts to address disease causes, strengthen healthcare systems, and respond to emergencies in challenging environments where few others can operate.
On Monday, 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 criticized the organization, claiming the U.S. was contributing significantly more than China. He declared, “World Health ripped us off.”
This marks the second time the U.S. has moved to leave the global health body. During Trump’s first term, his administration issued a similar withdrawal notice, accusing WHO of favoring China during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, that decision was reversed under former President Joe Biden’s administration.
The new executive order instructs federal agencies to halt any future transfer of funds, support, or resources to WHO. It also calls for identifying credible and transparent partners, both domestic and international, to assume responsibilities previously handled by the organization. Additionally, the administration announced plans to review and revoke Biden’s 2024 U.S. Global Health Security Strategy, designed to combat infectious disease threats, “as soon as practicable.”
In its statement, WHO underscored the United States’ long-standing contributions since becoming a founding member in 1948. The organization praised the U.S. for playing a pivotal role in shaping global health initiatives, citing achievements such as eradicating smallpox and nearly eliminating polio.
“The United States was a founding member of WHO in 1948 and has been instrumental in shaping and governing our work alongside 193 other Member States. Together, we have saved countless lives and protected people from health threats. American institutions have significantly benefited from and contributed to WHO membership,” the statement read.
WHO also highlighted reforms introduced over the last seven years to improve accountability, cost-effectiveness, and overall impact, reaffirming its commitment to continuous improvement.
The statement concluded with a plea: “We hope the United States will reconsider and look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain this partnership for the health and well-being of millions around the globe.”
