World Health Organization Responds to Trump's Order, Reminds Decades of Successful Health Achievements

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, initiating the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO).

The move marks a continuance of Trump’s first-term efforts to end WHO membership, citing concerns about the organization’s governance and financial practices. Former President Joe Biden reversed Trump’s initial withdrawal attempt upon taking office in 2021.

In his order, Trump pointed to the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, its alleged susceptibility to political influence, and a lack of meaningful reforms as primary reasons for the decision.

The U.S. has criticized the organization’s funding structure, emphasizing that American contributions far outweigh those of other nations. For example, China, with a population over three times that of the U.S., contributes approximately 90% less to the WHO’s budget, the executive order says.

The executive order formally revokes the 2021 Presidential Letter that retracted the U.S.’s initial notification to withdraw. Trump’s administration argued that WHO has failed to demonstrate independence from undue political influence and continues to impose unfair financial demands on the U.S.

The WHO said it regretted the decision, emphasizing the historic partnership between the organization and the United States. As a founding member since 1948, the U.S. has played a significant role in shaping the WHO’s initiatives and policies.

The collaboration has led to major public health achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio. WHO highlighted that American institutions have contributed to and benefited from the partnership over the past seven decades.

The U.S. decides to withdraw when global health challenges require coordinated efforts. While the WHO faces criticism, the organization argues that U.S. involvement has been critical to protecting Americans and addressing international health crises.

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