US Withdraws from World Health Organization (WHO)
President Trump Signs Executive Order to Withdraw from WHO
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday, directing the United States to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), a move that is expected to trigger a significant restructuring of the institution and potentially disrupt global health initiatives.
Criticisms and Funding
Trump’s decision to withdraw from the WHO comes amid criticisms over the organization’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that the US was paying far more to the UN body compared to China, adding, "World Health ripped us off." The US is the largest donor to the Geneva-based organization, providing substantial financial support that is vital to the WHO’s operations.
Previous Attempts to Withdraw
This marks the second time Trump has sought to sever ties with the WHO. During his first term, the US issued a notice of intent to withdraw, accusing the organization of being overly influenced by China during the pandemic’s early stages. However, that move was later reversed under former president Joe Biden’s administration.
New Executive Order
In his new executive order, Trump directed agencies to "pause the future transfer of any US government funds, support, or resources to the WHO" and to "identify credible and transparent US and international partners to assume necessary activities previously undertaken by the WHO." The administration also announced plans to review and rescind Biden’s 2024 US global health security strategy, which was designed to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats, "as soon as practicable."
Timing and Consequences
The timing of the US withdrawal comes amid mounting fears over the pandemic potential of the current bird flu outbreak (H5N1), which has infected dozens and claimed one life in the US. The withdrawal is also expected to have significant consequences for global health initiatives, including the world’s first treaty on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response, which has been under negotiation since late 2021.
FAQs
Q: Why is the US withdrawing from the WHO?
A: The US is withdrawing from the WHO due to criticisms over the organization’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and concerns over its funding.
Q: What are the consequences of the US withdrawal?
A: The withdrawal is expected to trigger a significant restructuring of the WHO and potentially disrupt global health initiatives.
Q: How will the US fund global health initiatives without WHO?
A: The administration has announced plans to identify credible and transparent US and international partners to assume necessary activities previously undertaken by the WHO, but details of the plan are yet to be revealed.
Q: What is the current state of the pandemic?
A: The current bird flu outbreak (H5N1) has infected dozens and claimed one life in the US, sparking concerns over the pandemic potential.