Donald Trump’s team plans to remove the United States from the World Health Organization on Day One of his new administration.
Key Facts:
– Trump’s transition team has indicated they want to withdraw the US from the WHO on Inauguration Day, January 20.
– The US is the largest single donor to the WHO, providing about 16 percent of its budget in 2022-23.
– Global health leaders, such as Lawrence Gostin, warn that cutting US support will hurt the WHO’s ability to respond to crises like the coronavirus pandemic.
– Some in Trump’s inner circle view an immediate exit as a symbolic reversal of President Biden’s decision to rejoin in 2021.
The Rest of The Story:
The plan to exit the WHO stems from Trump’s long-standing criticism that the agency operates under China’s influence, a sentiment he expressed during the Covid-19 crisis.
Lawrence Gostin, a global health expert, calls the move “catastrophic,” predicting it will leave the WHO understaffed and underfunded when the next crisis hits.
Others, including Ashish Jha, say the withdrawal will reduce US influence and hamper cooperation on vaccines and treatments.
During Trump’s previous term, he began the formal withdrawal process but it was halted when Joe Biden took office and reengaged with the WHO on his first day.
Now, insiders report that some in Trump’s team believe pulling out immediately is necessary to “send a message,” while others remain cautious, concerned about how this will affect US leadership on world health issues.
Trump's team wants to end membership and funding to the World Health Organization, which has become captured by China. pic.twitter.com/uBHbInizRC
— Wall Street Mav (@WallStreetMav) December 22, 2024
Commentary:
We believe Trump is right to cut ties with the WHO.
Over the past few years, the organization has appeared more focused on political agendas, often aligning with China’s interests rather than living up to its duty of preventing and containing global health emergencies.
The WHO’s track record during the pandemic showed a worrying pattern of deference to political power, causing many Americans to question whether it truly serves the global public interest.
An organization tasked with protecting people’s health cannot afford to be viewed as catering to one nation’s demands.
By withdrawing, the US can send a strong signal that we expect real reform—one that puts people’s well-being above politics.
The Bottom Line:
Trump’s push to leave the WHO on day one has raised alarms among experts about potential global health risks.
READ NEXT: Church of England Ask Priests to Remove Phrases From Christmas Carols to Avoid Offending Others
Still, it reflects a broader belief that a reformed approach—or a fresh start—might lead to better accountability and results.