The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the global health body and has called on President Donald Trump to reconsider.
According to WHO, the decades-long partnership between the two has been vital in addressing global health challenges and protecting public health worldwide.
In a statement on Tuesday, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the US withdrawal as a significant setback.
“WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans. This includes tackling the root causes of diseases, building stronger health systems, and responding to health emergencies,” Dr. Tedros stated.
The announcement follows President Trump’s executive order on Monday to withdraw the US from WHO, citing alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises.
The president also criticized the organization’s failure to adopt urgent reforms and its lack of independence from political influences within its member states.
A History of Collaboration
Since its founding in 1948, the US has been a key member of WHO, working alongside 193 other nations to improve global health. Dr. Tedros highlighted the partnership’s significant achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and near elimination of polio.
“The United States has been an integral part of WHO’s success. Together, we have achieved significant milestones in global health, and American institutions have contributed greatly to and benefited from WHO membership,” he said.
Dr. Tedros also noted that the US has played a critical role in driving WHO’s largest reforms over the past seven years, which have improved accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact worldwide.
“We hope the United States will reconsider, and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO. This partnership is crucial for the health and well-being of millions of people globally,” he added.
Impact of Withdrawal
Public health experts have expressed concerns over the decision, which comes at a time when global cooperation is essential for tackling health crises.
WHO emphasized its commitment to safeguarding public health, regardless of whether all member countries remain part of the organization.
However, the body stressed that continued cooperation is critical for addressing ongoing global health emergencies and improving health systems worldwide.
The US withdrawal marks the second attempt in recent years to leave WHO. In July 2020, the Trump administration began formal withdrawal proceedings, citing similar grievances, before the process was halted by President Joe Biden in January 2021.
Monday’s executive order reinstates the exit, sparking renewed debate about the importance of international health collaboration.
Dr. Tedros reiterated the importance of unity in combating global health threats and urged the US to remain a part of the international efforts to improve health outcomes for millions of people.
