US Withdraws from World Health Organization Amid Criticism of Handling COVID-19 Pandemic

In a move that has been hailed as a victory for those seeking transparency and accountability in global health efforts, the United States has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO).

The announcement was made by President [President's Name] in an Executive Order signed into effect today, amidst growing criticism of the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the order, the US withdrew from the WHO in 2020 due to concerns over the organization's mishandling of the pandemic, its failure to adopt urgently needed reforms, and its inability to demonstrate independence from the "inappropriate political influence" of member states. The WHO has also been accused of unfairly demanding large payments from the US.

The order revokes a previous Executive Order issued in 2021, which had planned for the transfer of funds to the WHO. It also instructs the Secretary of State and Director of the Office of Management and Budget to take immediate action to pause further transfers of US government funds to the organization and to recall US personnel working with the WHO.

Furthermore, the order requests that the Director of the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy review and replace the current global health security strategy before the end of 2024.

The move is seen as a significant shift in the global healthcare landscape and has been welcomed by some who have long advocated for greater transparency and accountability within the organization. Others, however, have expressed concerns about the potential consequences of US withdrawal on global health efforts.

As the US begins its withdrawal from the WHO, it remains to be seen how this will impact international cooperation on public health issues and whether other countries will follow suit in reviewing their relationships with the organization.

ALSO READ: Global Reaction to US Withdrawal; WHO Announces Plans for Reform