WHO Warns US Exit Imperils Global Health

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed profound regret over the United States' decision to withdraw from the agency, warning that this move compromises both American and global safety. This significant development follows the official US exit from the organization on January 22, 2026, according to recent reports.

who.int reported, The WHO emphasized the United States' long-standing role as a pivotal contributor to public health achievements worldwide. For decades, the US has consistently been the largest donor and partner, providing substantial financial and technical support to the global health body.

The notification of withdrawal is now slated for critical discussion by the WHO Executive Board at its regular meeting, which is scheduled to commence on February 2, 2026. This 34-member board is instrumental in implementing the Health Assembly's decisions and offering strategic advice on the organization's ongoing work.

who.int noted, Further comprehensive deliberations are anticipated at the World Health Assembly's annual meeting in May 2026. This supreme decision-making body of the WHO will undertake a thorough review of the implications and potential next steps arising from the United States' departure.

The US administration cited "WHO failures during the COVID-19 pandemic," including alleged mishandling and a perceived lack of transparency, as key reasons for its decision, according to a January 2025 executive order. Concerns were also raised regarding what the US considered disproportionate financial contributions.

who.int reported, In a detailed rebuttal, the WHO firmly stated it stands by its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting it acted quickly and transparently throughout the crisis. The agency underscored its commitment to engaging with all member states, including the United States, in good faith.

• Historical US Engagement and Funding: The United States has been a foundational member of the World Health Organization since its establishment in 1948, playing a critical role in its formation and ongoing operations. Historically, the US has been the largest financial contributor, providing approximately $1.284 billion during the 2022–2023 biennium, which represented 15.6% of the WHO's total revenue.

• who.int noted, Impact on Global Health Programs: The US withdrawal is projected to create a significant budget deficit for the WHO, threatening to disrupt vital global health programs. These include crucial initiatives such as widespread vaccination campaigns, essential maternal and child health services, and critical emergency preparedness efforts, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

• Loss of US Influence and Geopolitical Shifts: The departure of the United States significantly diminishes its influence in shaping global health policy and creates a substantial vacuum within the international health arena. Experts suggest that other nations, including India, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and China, may step in to exert greater sway, potentially altering global health priorities and leadership dynamics.

• who.int reported, Specific Programmatic Consequences: The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has issued a warning that the US withdrawal entails its non-participation in crucial platforms like the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System. This absence could severely impede international efforts to track flu cases and develop effective annual flu vaccines, posing a risk to global public health.

• WHO Governance and Decision-Making: The WHO's governance structure involves the Executive Board, composed of 34 technically qualified members, which is responsible for preparing the agenda for the World Health Assembly and implementing its policies. The World Health Assembly, attended by delegations from all member states, serves as the supreme decision-making body, determining policies, supervising financial matters, and approving the proposed program budget.

• who.int noted, Previous Withdrawal Attempt and Reversal: This is not the first instance of the US moving to withdraw from the WHO. A similar attempt in July 2020 under a previous administration was subsequently reversed by the incoming Biden administration in January 2021, underscoring the fluctuating nature of US engagement with the organization.

• Broader Implications for International Cooperation: The withdrawal signals a potential shift towards more unilateral approaches in global health, challenging the fundamental principle of multilateralism. This move could undermine the existing framework of global health governance and weaken the collective capacity of nations to effectively respond to future pandemics and other health crises.

• who.int reported, US Justifications and WHO's Defense: The US administration cited concerns regarding the WHO's alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and a perceived failure to adopt reforms and demonstrate independence. However, the WHO maintains that it acted transparently and effectively throughout the crisis, providing evidence-based guidance to its member states.