The World Health Organization (WHO) is a vital United Nations agency established in 1948 to protect global health, coordinate disease control, and improve life expectancy worldwide. WHO has played a central role in addressing health emergencies, spearheading initiatives like the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio, while also leading responses to outbreaks such as Ebola and COVID-19. Despite its significant contributions, WHO has faced criticism for inefficiencies, political challenges, and reliance on private donors.

In a controversial move, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order during his second term to withdraw the United States from the WHO. This decision has sparked widespread debate, raising concerns about its impact on global health and international cooperation.

What Does WHO Do?

WHO’s mission is “the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health.” With operations in over 150 countries, the organization promotes universal health coverage, monitors disease outbreaks, and conducts critical health research. WHO’s notable achievements include the eradication of smallpox, a rare instance of Cold War collaboration between the United States and the Soviet Union. Other key contributions include responses to health emergencies such as cholera, yellow fever, and more recently, the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, where WHO’s coordinated efforts and vaccine research helped save thousands of lives.

Trump’s Criticisms of WHO

Trump’s decision to withdraw from WHO stemmed primarily from dissatisfaction with its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He accused the organization of mismanaging the crisis and alleged that it was overly influenced by China, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic. Trump’s claim that the coronavirus originated in a Wuhan laboratory—an assertion he believed WHO failed to investigate thoroughly—fueled his distrust.

In addition to these criticisms, Trump highlighted financial disparities. He argued that the U.S., which contributes approximately $500 million annually to WHO, bore an unfair financial burden compared to China’s $40 million contribution, despite its larger population. Trump’s frustrations echoed broader skepticism among his supporters about international organizations and their value to the United States.

The Potential Impact of U.S. Withdrawal

Experts warn that the U.S. departure from WHO could weaken global health systems and undermine responses to health crises. As one of WHO’s largest donors, the U.S. provides critical funding for programs addressing diseases like polio, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. A withdrawal would jeopardize these efforts and delay the eradication of preventable diseases.

Furthermore, WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating global responses to pandemics by facilitating data sharing and research. Alan Bernstein, director of the Global Health Initiative at Oxford University, emphasized that international collaboration is essential for tackling pandemics effectively. For example, WHO’s early coordination efforts helped secure the genetic sequence of COVID-19, enabling the development of vaccines.

Reactions to the Decision

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed regret over the U.S. decision, highlighting decades of joint efforts between the U.S. and WHO to combat health threats. “Together, we ended smallpox and brought polio to the brink of eradication,” Tedros said. He warned that the loss of U.S. support would hinder WHO’s ability to address ongoing health emergencies in 42 countries.

Critics of Trump’s decision argue that it undermines global health security and isolates the U.S. from vital international cooperation. Lawrence Gostin, a public health law expert at Georgetown University, described the withdrawal as “sowing the seeds for the next pandemic.” He added that the U.S. benefits from WHO’s work by gaining early intelligence on outbreaks and access to global health resources.

What Happens Next?

A formal withdrawal from WHO requires a year-long process, providing an opportunity for reversal. President Joe Biden previously halted Trump’s first attempt to exit WHO in 2020, citing the importance of international health cooperation. However, Trump’s renewed efforts to expedite the process suggest a more determined approach this time. The executive order calls for an immediate pause in U.S. funding to WHO, which could have an immediate impact on ongoing health programs.

Conclusion

The decision to withdraw from WHO highlights the tension between national sovereignty and global cooperation in addressing health challenges. While Trump’s criticisms of WHO reflect valid concerns about transparency and accountability, experts caution that withdrawing from the organization could have far-reaching consequences. As global health crises grow more complex, the need for coordinated international efforts—and the participation of influential nations like the United States—remains critical. Whether Trump’s decision will stand or be reversed again by future administrations, its impact on global health and America’s role in the world will be closely watched.