WHO Issues Plea for Reconsideration Following Trump’s Exit

Smartphone displaying World Health Organization logo background

President Donald Trump signs executive order to withdraw U.S. from World Health Organization, sparking global health concerns and debate.

Quick Takes

  • Trump initiates U.S. withdrawal from WHO for the second time, citing mishandling of the pandemic and political influence.
  • Decision criticized by public health experts, warning of negative impacts on global health efforts and U.S. leadership.
  • WHO expresses regret, emphasizing its crucial role in global health and security.
  • Withdrawal pauses U.S. funding to WHO, exacerbating financial difficulties.
  • Debate arises over Trump’s authority to unilaterally withdraw without Congressional approval.

Trump’s Bold Move Against WHO

In a significant development, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to initiate the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) for the second time. This action underscores the Trump administration’s skepticism towards multilateral organizations and has far-reaching implications for both U.S. and global health policy.

Trump’s decision comes as a stark contrast to President Joe Biden’s previous reversal of the initial withdrawal on his first day in office. The executive order criticizes the WHO for demanding disproportionate payments from the United States, which has been the largest funder of the organization, contributing almost one-fifth of its $6.8 billion budget in 2023.

Concerns and Criticisms

Public health experts have voiced strong opposition to Trump’s decision, warning that it could severely impact global health efforts and diminish U.S. leadership in health and science. The withdrawal is expected to pause U.S. funding to the WHO, further straining the organization’s finances amid a recent emergency funding appeal for $1.5 billion.

“It’s a cataclysmic presidential decision. Withdrawal is a grievous wound to world health, but a still deeper wound to the US” – Lawrence Gostin

Legal expert Lawrence Gostin has criticized Trump’s order as legally flawed, noting that it violates the one-year notice period and financial obligations mandated by Congress. Gostin warns that the withdrawal could lead to reduced global health funding, affecting critical programs for HIV, polio, and health emergencies.

WHO’s Response and Implications

The World Health Organization has expressed deep regret over the United States announcement, warning that it could undermine the organization’s mission. WHO emphasizes its crucial role in global health and security, including for Americans, by addressing disease causes, strengthening health systems, and managing health emergencies.

The United States, a founding member of WHO in 1948, has been actively involved in its governance and operations for over 70 years. This partnership has achieved significant health milestones, including the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio. WHO remains hopeful that the United States will reconsider its decision and is open to constructive dialogue to maintain their partnership for global health benefits.

Debate and Future Implications

While some supporters of Trump celebrate the withdrawal, viewing WHO as a problematic organization, there is ongoing debate over whether the president can unilaterally withdraw the U.S. from WHO without Congressional approval. The Republican control of Congress may facilitate the process, but legal challenges are expected.

As the situation unfolds, concerns grow about the potential impact on global public health efforts. Dr. David Hamer warns that reduced WHO capacity could slow responses to future health crises, potentially affecting the United States as well. The international community watches closely as this decision reshapes the landscape of global health governance and cooperation.

Sources:

  1. US exit from WHO could see fifth of budget disappear
  2. What will happen to World Health Organization without US funding?
  3. WHO comments on United States’ announcement of intent to withdraw
  4. WHO Responds to Trump Withdrawing US From Organization