The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised serious concerns over the United States’ official withdrawal from the agency, warning that the move weakens global health security. In a statement, WHO highlighted the critical role the U.S. has played since the organisation’s founding, contributing to major achievements such as the eradication of smallpox and progress against diseases like polio, HIV, Ebola, malaria, and tuberculosis.
The U.S. formally completed its withdrawal on Thursday, following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump on his first day in office, January 20, 2025. WHO noted that the decision not only impacts the United States but also “makes the world less safe.” The matter is set to be reviewed by the WHO Executive Board in February and the World Health Assembly in May 2026.
Responding to U.S. claims that WHO had “trashed and tarnished” its reputation or compromised its independence, the organisation stressed that it has always engaged with the United States in good faith, respecting its sovereignty. The U.S. cited perceived missteps by WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, including delayed sharing of information and a lack of transparency, as reasons for the withdrawal.
WHO countered that no government or institution could claim perfection during the crisis. It reaffirmed that it acted swiftly and transparently, providing timely guidance to member states based on the best available evidence. The organisation highlighted its recommendations for masks, vaccines, and physical distancing, clarifying that it never mandated masks, vaccines, or lockdowns.
The withdrawal signals a new chapter in global health diplomacy, one that WHO warns could leave countries more vulnerable to future public health threats.
