At the White House. A 10.0 political earthquake just struck the nation’s capital!
The United States has officially completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The move fulfills a long-standing objective of Donald Trump, who first attempted to leave the organization during his initial presidential term and formally initiated the withdrawal again through an executive order at the start of his second term.
Under U.S. law, the country was required to provide one year’s notice and settle its financial obligations before the withdrawal could take effect. Although the United States reportedly still owes the WHO about $260 million, experts say the organization has little power to force payment. Legal scholar Lawrence Gostin noted that while payment is legally required, enforcement options are limited.
HHS confirmed that all U.S. government funding to the WHO has been terminated. In addition, American personnel and contractors working with the organization have been recalled, and the United States has stopped participating in WHO committees, leadership groups, and technical programs.
The administration cited the WHO’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a major reason for leaving, criticizing the organization for delaying the declaration of a global emergency and for praising China early in the outbreak.
Despite the withdrawal, officials say the United States will continue global health efforts through partnerships with other countries, non-governmental organizations, and programs led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, some public health experts warn that leaving the WHO could weaken international disease surveillance and global response to emerging health threats.
