President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is reportedly preparing to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) immediately after Trump takes office on January 20, 2025. The move signals a continuation of Trump’s previous criticisms of the WHO and a shift toward prioritizing national sovereignty over international health organizations.
Trump’s Criticisms of the WHO
During his first term, Trump accused the WHO of mismanagement and undue influence from China, particularly in its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Trump initiated the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, citing its failure to hold China accountable for its role in the global pandemic. The decision was later reversed by President Joe Biden in 2021.
Trump’s transition team has made it clear that they view the WHO as unfit to address global health challenges effectively and believe U.S. taxpayer dollars could be better utilized in domestic health programs or targeted international initiatives.
Implications of the Withdrawal
The U.S. is a significant financial contributor to the WHO, providing approximately 16% of its funding. A withdrawal could impact the organization’s ability to address health emergencies, including disease outbreaks and global vaccination efforts.
However, Trump’s advisors argue that the U.S. can achieve more by redirecting resources toward bilateral or regional health partnerships, rather than supporting what they view as a bureaucratic organization with questionable priorities.
Concerns About Global Leadership
Critics have raised concerns that a U.S. withdrawal might allow China to expand its influence within the WHO, potentially shifting the organization’s policies and priorities in ways that conflict with American interests.
Supporters of the move counter that the WHO’s structure is already compromised, and U.S. disengagement is necessary to prompt meaningful reform. They argue that the U.S. can maintain global health leadership through direct partnerships and by setting an example in managing health crises effectively.
International and Domestic Responses
The WHO has expressed hope for continued U.S. collaboration. Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated, “Global health security depends on unity and collective action.”
Domestically, the decision has sparked debate. Supporters of Trump’s plan believe the WHO has failed in its mission and see the withdrawal as a step toward reclaiming American autonomy in health policy. Opponents argue that leaving the organization may weaken U.S. influence on global health issues.
Moving Forward
If carried out, the withdrawal would mark a significant policy shift, emphasizing a focus on America-first strategies. Trump’s administration is expected to outline alternative plans for engaging in global health initiatives while minimizing reliance on international organizations perceived as ineffective.
The potential withdrawal reflects Trump’s broader approach to international agreements, favoring bilateral solutions over multilateral organizations. As January approaches, the implications of this decision will shape the future of U.S. health policy and its role in addressing global challenges.