Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — President Donald Trump wasted no time making waves on his first day back in office, officially withdraws the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). The decision, announced Tuesday (January 21, 2025) after trump signing his executive order, withdrawing the U.S. from WHO.
Trump outlined several reasons for the withdrawal, including the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its perceived failure to implement critical reforms.
“The United States is withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in Wuhan, China, and other global health crises,” Trump states, as reported by BBC.
Concerns Over Funding and China’s Role
Trump has frequently criticized the WHO, alleging undue political influence over its member nations and unfair financial demands on the U.S. He pointed to a disparity in funding contributions, singling out China.
“China, with a population of 1.4 billion—300% of the United States—contributes nearly 90% less to the WHO,” the White House said, emphasizing the disproportionate burden placed on the U.S.
According to Reuters, the U.S. was the organization’s largest donor, contributing about 18% of its overall budget. The WHO’s budget for 2024-2025 is estimated at $6.8 billion.
“World Health has ripped us off, just like everyone else has ripped off the United States. This ends today,” Trump declared while signing the executive order for withdrawal.
Impact on Global Health Organizations
Experts warn the U.S. departure could have significant repercussions, particularly for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which relies on WHO data for global health surveillance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO’s reports on emerging cases were critical for international response coordination.
According to The New York Times, without access to WHO data, U.S. health agencies could face delays in addressing future health threats.
However, the immediate consequences for the WHO and the global health network remain uncertain as the organizations loses its biggest donor.
WHO Response
The World Health Organization commenting on Trump order of withdrawal, and expressed regret over the decision. “We hope the United States will reconsider. Constructive dialogue is essential for the benefit of everyone—not just Americans, but people around the world,” WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said at a press briefing in Geneva.
The withdrawal triggers a 12-month notice period during which the U.S. will cease all financial contributions to the United Nations health agency.
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A History of Criticism
Trump decision to withdraws the U.S. from WHO is the culmination of years of animosity toward the organizations, which he repeatedly accused of being inefficient and overly reliant on U.S. funding.
The move signals a broader shift in U.S. policy toward multilateral organizations, with potential ripple effects on international health efforts and pandemic preparedness.
As the world grapples with ongoing public health challenges, the departure of its largest donor raises questions about the future of global health cooperation.
(Raidi/Agung)
