United States to Withdraw from the World Health Organization by January 2026
Washington, The Gulf Observer: The United States will officially withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) by January 22, 2026, according to a statement from the United Nations on Thursday. The decision comes after President Donald Trump formally notified the UN of his administration’s intent to leave the Geneva-based health agency.
Trump’s announcement, made shortly after his inauguration for a second term, follows his longstanding criticism of the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises. On Tuesday, the WHO expressed regret over the US decision, emphasizing the significance of the withdrawal of its largest financial contributor.
Under a 1948 joint resolution of the US Congress, the withdrawal requires a one-year notice, and the United States must fulfill its financial obligations during this period. As the WHO’s top donor, the United States contributes approximately 18% of the organization’s overall funding. The WHO’s budget for 2024-2025 totals $6.8 billion, though the exact amount the US owes for its dues is yet to be confirmed.
UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq stated, “We have now received the US letter on the WHO withdrawal. It is dated 22 January 2025 and will take effect on 22 January 2026.”
Experts within and outside the WHO have expressed concerns over the potential impact of the US withdrawal on key global health programs, particularly those addressing tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other infectious diseases. The departure of the US is expected to put these vital initiatives at risk, as the WHO relies heavily on US funding and expertise.
Additionally, Trump’s executive order on the withdrawal includes the cessation of negotiations regarding the WHO’s pandemic treaty, and US personnel currently working with the WHO will be reassigned. The order directs the government to seek alternative partners to assume responsibility for crucial WHO activities.
The move to withdraw from the WHO is not unprecedented. Trump had initiated steps to exit the organization in 2020 during his first term, but the withdrawal was halted by President Joe Biden, who reversed the decision on his first day in office in January 2021.
