Trump Withdraws U.S. from World Health Organization

Written by Kathrine Frich

Jan.21 - 2025 1:51 PM CET

The WHO has expressed regret over the announcement.

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One of Donald Trump’s first actions as the 47th president of the United States is pulling the country out of the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to a White House statement, the withdrawal will take effect over the next twelve months.

The executive order cites multiple reasons for the decision, including what Trump describes as the WHO’s poor handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, its failure to implement necessary reforms, and its alleged lack of independence from political influences.

Not the First Time

The order also criticizes what the administration considers an unfair financial burden on the U.S., pointing out that China, despite having a population nearly four times larger, contributes significantly less to the organization.

During the signing of the order, Trump reportedly told an aide, "That’s a big reason," referring to what he views as disproportionate payments by the U.S. to the WHO, according to El Economista.

The directive instructs the Secretary of State and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to halt funding and begin reassigning American personnel working with the organization.

The WHO has expressed regret over the announcement, calling for the U.S. to reconsider.

In a statement, the organization said it hopes to continue dialogue with the American government to maintain cooperation for the benefit of global health.

The decision has also drawn responses from international leaders. Spain’s Health Minister, Mónica García, reiterated her country’s commitment to the WHO, stating that global health challenges require cooperation beyond national borders.

The move marks the second time Trump has withdrawn the U.S. from the WHO. During his first term, he initiated the same process, though it was later reversed by President Joe Biden.

Now, with Trump back in office, the decision has been revived, raising concerns about the future of U.S. participation in global health initiatives.