
Donald Trump has reignited efforts to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), a move that could significantly impact global health initiatives. The U.S. is a major funder of the WHO, contributing between $163 million and $816 million annually over the last decade, according to KFF.
The withdrawal could disrupt international health programs, including those addressing global health preparedness, HIV, tuberculosis, and vaccinations. Public health experts have largely opposed the decision, warning of its implications on global health efforts.
Trump criticized the WHO for its handling of the COVID-19 outbreak and its alleged lack of independence from the Chinese Communist Party. Monday’s executive order also highlights “onerous payments from the United States, far out of proportion with other countries’ contributions,” noting that China pays less despite its larger population.
The withdrawal process requires a year to complete. While Trump initiated it in 2020, President Joe Biden reversed the decision upon taking office in 2021. The latest order renews the formal process to exit the global health body.