U.S. Completes Withdrawal from WHO Amid Ongoing Health Crisis

Sat Jan 24 2026 09:51:12 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The United States has finalized its exit from the World Health Organization, leaving behind significant financial obligations and complicating global health cooperation.

The U.S. has officially withdrawn from the WHO, an action marked by a significant financial debt of about $280 million. Experts warn that this decision could severely impact the global health response to future pandemics, undermining both U.S. and international capabilities to address health crises effectively. Critics have pointed to the potential long-term consequences for public health programs and international relations.

NEW YORK (AP) — The United States has officially completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a historic separation after 78 years of membership. This decision, announced by federal officials, comes alongside an acknowledgment of ongoing issues regarding the U.S.'s financial obligations, including approximately $280 million owed to the global health body.

Despite the withdrawal, experts express concern regarding the implications for global health. Public health law expert Lawrence Gostin of Georgetown University states, “In my opinion, it’s the most ruinous presidential decision in my lifetime.” He cautioned that the exit would impair the effectiveness of U.S. scientists and pharmaceutical companies in responding to new health threats.

The WHO, a key UN agency, is vital for international health coordination, particularly in managing outbreaks of diseases such as mpox, Ebola, and polio. Its role includes providing technical assistance to lower-income nations and distributing vital health resources.

Historically, the U.S. has been a leading contributor to the WHO, paying significant dues and providing substantial expertise. However, the Trump administration justified the exit by criticizing the WHO's performance and alleged political biases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experts warn that the U.S. withdrawal could undermine critical initiatives aimed at eradicating diseases and contribute to a fragmented global health landscape. While U.S. officials claim they will engage directly with countries for health data sharing, skeptics argue that this approach may not adequately compensate for the loss of WHO's support and networks.

Furthermore, without a formal participation in WHO-led committees and governance, the U.S. risks losing out on crucial influenza data that informs vaccine development.

Despite these concerns, the U.S. administration maintains it has developed alternative pathways for public health collaboration, although details on these new arrangements remain sparse.

Lauding the WHO's role while also acknowledging its missteps during the pandemic, experts believe the exit could diminish the U.S.'s influence in global health governance, particularly as new health crises loom.