US Officially Withdraws from WHO Amid Criticism of Pandemic Response

The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), removing one of the UN agency’s largest contributors. The move follows an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump a year ago, citing concerns over the WHO’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, political influence from member states, and a perceived “China-centric” bias.

The US Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the withdrawal, halting funding, recalling US personnel from WHO offices, and suspending hundreds of engagements. WHO officials, including Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, rejected these claims, describing the move as a loss for global health. The US also has not paid its 2024–25 fees, totaling an estimated $260 million, despite WHO legal advice suggesting payment obligations remain.

The withdrawal occurs amid criticism of the US pandemic response, with studies noting delayed national guidance, politicised measures, and high Covid-19 mortality. WHO continues to lead international health initiatives, including polio, HIV, and vaccine development, while the US plans bilateral disease surveillance and NGO partnerships instead.

25-01-2026