US Drops Out of World Health Organization with Trump- Signed Executive Order

In a surprise move, President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, announcing his intention to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO). The decision marks a significant shift in the country's stance on global health cooperation and its role in international affairs.

The "day-one" executive order, which takes effect immediately, calls for the US to withdraw from WHO membership, pause funding and other resources to the organization, recall and reassign US government personnel and contractors working with WHO, and end negotiations on the Pandemic Agreement. The move is seen as a bold statement of American independence and a rejection of US involvement in international health initiatives.

For the WHO, which is heavily reliant on US funding and expertise, the decision is likely to have significant implications. The US is its largest donor and plays a key role in international negotiations at the WHO governance table. China is also expected to benefit from US withdrawal, as Beijing has long sought to assert its influence on global health issues.

The move comes amid growing concerns about infectious diseases and pandemics. A recent poll found that 54% of Americans believe the country needs to spend more on preventing infectious diseases and preparing for future outbreaks.

However, the decision also raises significant questions about how the US will manage its public health and respond to emerging threats. Without its place at the WHO table, it is unclear how quickly and effectively the US can access information and cooperation from global partners when needed.

Critics of the move argue that US withdrawal from the WHO undermines the organization's ability to tackle pressing global health issues and compromise American interests. "The US has a responsibility to work with international partners to address global health challenges, not isolate itself," said Dr. Maria van Kerkhove, director of the Health Emergencies Programme at WHO.

As news of the executive order spread, global condemnation poured in from healthcare experts, scientists, and world leaders. The move is seen as a brazen attempt by the Trump administration to assert American exceptionalism and disregard international cooperation on global health issues.