U.S. Announces Departure from World Health Organization in 2026

In a significant and controversial decision, the United States has formally announced its intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) effective January 22, 2026. The United Nations confirmed receiving the official withdrawal notice, which comes just days after President Donald Trump was sworn in for his second term as president. The move has sparked global concern, given the U.S. role as the WHO's largest financial contributor and a key player in addressing global health challenges.

The decision to leave the Geneva-based health agency stems from President Trump’s longstanding criticisms of the WHO, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health emergencies. Trump accused the organization of mismanagement and alleged bias toward specific member states. While the announcement was not unexpected, it solidifies the administration's intent to cease its relationship with the global health body.

Under the terms of the withdrawal, the U.S. must provide a one-year notice and settle its outstanding dues as outlined in a 1948 joint resolution of Congress. The WHO’s current budget for 2024-2025 stands at $6.8 billion, with the U.S. contributing around 18% of the total funding. The exact amount the U.S. owes to the organization remains unclear. WHO officials expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging the potential disruption to critical programs that rely on U.S. funding.

The withdrawal is expected to have far-reaching consequences, with experts warning of significant setbacks in global health initiatives. The U.S. departure could jeopardize programs aimed at combating tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other infectious diseases. It may also impact the WHO’s capacity to respond to health emergencies, as the organization will need to seek alternative funding sources to sustain its operations.

Trump’s decision also includes measures to cease U.S. involvement in the WHO’s ongoing pandemic treaty negotiations. The treaty aims to improve global preparedness and response to future pandemics. As part of the withdrawal process, U.S. government personnel working with the WHO will be recalled and reassigned, and the administration will explore partnerships with other entities to fill gaps left by the organization.

This announcement marks Trump’s second attempt to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO. During his first term, Trump initiated the process to leave the organization in 2020. However, the plan was halted by President Joe Biden, who reinstated U.S. membership on his first day in office in January 2021. Now, with Trump’s re-election, the withdrawal has been set in motion once again.

The global response to this decision has been mixed. Critics argue that the U.S. withdrawal undermines international cooperation in addressing health crises and leaves a leadership void. Supporters of the move contend that the funds could be redirected to domestic health programs or partnerships deemed more efficient and transparent.

As the world grapples with ongoing health challenges, the U.S. exit from the WHO raises critical questions about the future of global health governance. With a year remaining before the withdrawal takes effect, the international community will be closely watching how this decision reshapes the landscape of global health collaboration.

Reference From: www.ndtv.com​