Why Trump Signs Order to Withdraw US from WHO??

Image: Axios


President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing the agency's mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic, its failure to reform, and its bias toward China. This marks Trump's second attempt to leave the WHO, following his previous criticism of the organization.

While the US is the WHO's largest financial contributor, experts warn that the withdrawal could harm global health efforts and reduce US leadership in health matters. Some argue the move may lead to necessary reforms in the WHO, but the decision seems final, with no signs of reversal.


Reasons for the Withdrawal

The executive order outlines several reasons for the withdrawal, with a particular focus on the WHO’s actions during the pandemic. President Trump has criticized the WHO for its response to the COVID-19 crisis, citing the organization's delay in addressing the severity of the outbreak and its alleged mishandling of crucial information. The WHO has also been accused of allowing political considerations, particularly the influence of China, to shape its decisions and messaging during the pandemic.

Trump’s administration had previously placed a temporary freeze on U.S. contributions to the WHO, and this executive order marks the next step in the U.S. disengaging from the organization entirely. The order directs the Secretary of State to formally notify the WHO and the United Nations about the U.S. withdrawal and instructs U.S. personnel to cease their activities related to the organization.

Image: WNCT

Implications for U.S. and Global Health

While President Trump’s move to pull the U.S. from the WHO is seen as a victory for those critical of globalist institutions, it raises significant concerns for public health experts. The WHO has played a central role in coordinating international efforts to tackle infectious diseases and public health emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics of the withdrawal warn that this action could weaken the global health infrastructure and hinder future efforts to respond to emerging diseases.

The U.S. has historically been one of the largest contributors to the WHO, both in terms of funding and expertise. The withdrawal could affect ongoing global health initiatives and projects, which are often funded by U.S. contributions. Experts also caution that disengaging from the WHO could limit the United States’ influence on global health decisions, particularly in matters of disease prevention, vaccinations, and pandemic preparedness.

European and Global Reactions

The timing of the U.S. withdrawal coincides with growing concerns over global health security, as countries continue to grapple with the ongoing consequences of the pandemic. European leaders have expressed disappointment, emphasizing that international cooperation is critical to addressing worldwide health challenges. The WHO itself has yet to respond publicly to the U.S. withdrawal, but it is expected that other member states may need to fill the gap left by the absence of the U.S. in global health decision-making.

Image: CNN

Looking Ahead: Future Health Diplomacy

The Biden administration, which takes office in 2025, is expected to re-evaluate the U.S. stance on the WHO. Many anticipate that the new administration will work to restore U.S. participation in the organization and re-establish the U.S. as a leading voice in global health initiatives. However, the withdrawal could leave a lasting impact on the trajectory of U.S. health diplomacy and its role in shaping international public health policies.

While President Trump’s decision to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO has drawn sharp criticism, it also signals the growing trend of questioning multilateral agreements and global institutions. The success or failure of this move will depend on how future administrations address the complex challenges of global health and whether the U.S. will remain a critical player in shaping global responses to future pandemics.

In conclusion, the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO represents a defining moment in global health diplomacy. Whether the decision proves to be a short-term disruption or a long-term shift in the U.S.’s role in global public health will depend largely on the actions of the new administration and the broader international community.

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