By : Lloyd Mahachi
The United States is officially withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO) in January 2026. This decision comes after US President Donald Trump sent a formal letter to the UN body, confirming the country’s withdrawal. The move was announced on Trump’s first day in office, with the president ordering a pause on WHO funding.
The WHO has expressed regret over the US decision, highlighting the crucial role the organization plays in protecting global health and security. The WHO’s work includes addressing major crises such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and global pandemics. The organization has also made significant contributions to eradicating diseases like smallpox and polio.
The impact of the US withdrawal will be felt globally, as the WHO relies heavily on US funding to carry out its operations. The US contributes approximately 18% of the WHO’s funding, totaling around $261 million between 2024 and 2025. China is the second-largest contributor, providing $181 million.
The loss of US funding will significantly impact the WHO’s ability to address global health crises. The organization will have to rely on other member states to fill the funding gap, which could be challenging. The WHO’s budget for 2024-2025 is approximately $6.7 billion, and the loss of US funding will require significant adjustments.
Trump’s decision to withdraw from the WHO is not unprecedented. In 2020, he announced plans to withdraw from the organization, citing its mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the withdrawal was thwarted when Trump lost the presidential election to Joe Biden, who immediately reversed the decision.
The legality of Trump’s unilateral decision to withdraw from the WHO has been questioned. The US joined the WHO in 1948 through a joint resolution from Congress, which may require congressional approval to withdraw. Legal experts have suggested that the withdrawal could be challenged in court.
The WHO has expressed hope that the US will reconsider its decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their partnership to protect global health and wellbeing. The organization has also highlighted its ongoing reforms aimed at improving accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact.
The US withdrawal from the WHO will have significant implications for global health governance. The WHO plays a critical role in coordinating international responses to health crises, and the loss of US leadership and funding will be felt deeply. The international community will be watching closely to see how the WHO adapts to this new reality.
In the meantime, the WHO will continue to work towards its goals of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. The organization will have to rely on its other member states to support its operations and maintain its effectiveness in addressing global health challenges.
The US withdrawal from the WHO is a significant setback for global health governance, but it is not a fatal blow. The WHO has faced challenges before and has always managed to adapt and continue its critical work. The organization will continue to play a vital role in promoting global health and wellbeing, even without US membership.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
