WHO Expresses Regret Over U.S Withdrawal Intentions.
WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans, by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and responding to health emergencies, including disease outbreaks in dangerous areas where others cannot go
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States' announcement of its intention to withdraw from the global health body, a move that has sparked widespread concerns about its potential impact on global health security.
The announcement, made during President Donald Trump’s first term through an executive order, cited concerns over WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The executive order pointed to the need for greater accountability, transparency, and reforms within WHO, while also criticising the organisation’s early response to the outbreak.
In a statement, WHO stressed its critical role in safeguarding global health and its decades-long collaboration with the U.S.
“WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans, by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and responding to health emergencies, including disease outbreaks in dangerous areas where others cannot go,” the organisation noted.
The U.S. has been a member of WHO since its founding in 1948, significantly shaping its governance and strategy.
According to the statement, “the U.S. and WHO have achieved monumental milestones in global health, including the eradication of smallpox and bringing polio to the brink of elimination.
American institutions have both contributed to and benefited from WHO membership, collaborating on initiatives that have saved millions of lives”.
Over the past seven years, WHO has implemented the most comprehensive reforms in its history to improve accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact, with strong U.S. support.
The organisation emphasised its commitment to addressing concerns raised by member states, including the U.S., while maintaining its focus on global health equity and emergency response.
"We hope the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the U.S. and WHO," the statement added.
Health experts warn that the U.S. withdrawal could undermine global health initiatives and hinder efforts to combat pandemics and other transnational.
