US To Withdraw From WHO By January 2026, Citing Longstanding Criticism

EXCERPT: The US is set to exit the WHO in 2026, citing concerns over the agency’s handling of global health crisis. 

The United Nations confirmed on Thursday that the United States will officially withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026.

The decision follows formal notification from President Donald Trump, who has criticised the agency for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises.  

Trump announced the withdrawal on Monday, shortly after being sworn in for a second term. 

“I can confirm we have now received the USletter on the WHO withdrawal. It is dated 22 January 2025. It would take effect a year from yesterday, on 22 January 2026,” said deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq.  

The WHO, which relies heavily on US funding, expressed disappointment with the decision. “We regret the move from our top donor country,” the organisation said in a statement on Tuesday. 

The US is the WHO’s largest financial contributor, providing approximately 18% of its total funding. 

The organisation’s most recent two-year budget for 2024-2025 stands at $6.8 billion, though it remains unclear how much the US currently owes.  

Under a 1948 joint resolution of the US Congress, Washington is required to give a one-year notice of withdrawal and settle any outstanding dues before fully exiting the Geneva-based body.  

Health experts warn that the US departure could severely impact key WHO programs, particularly those addressing major global health threats such as tuberculosis—the world’s deadliest infectious disease—HIV/AIDS, and emergency health responses.  

Trump’s withdrawal order, signed earlier this week, also directs the US government to cease negotiations on the WHO’s pandemic treaty during the withdrawal process. 

Additionally, US personnel currently working with the WHO will be recalled and reassigned, while the administration seeks alternative partners to continue essential health initiatives.  

This move is not without precedent. During his first term, Trump attempted to withdraw from the WHO in 2020, citing similar grievances. However, his successor, President Joe Biden, reversed the decision on his first day in office on January 20, 2021.  

Boluwatife Enome

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