U.S. Formally Leaves the World Health Organization

January 23, 2026

U.S. Government Ends 78-Year Commitment Despite Public Health Experts' Warnings

The United States' withdrawal from the World Health Organization has been finalized, the federal government announced on Thursday.

The exit was initiated through an executive order issued shortly after President Donald Trump took office, citing the organization's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises. The order also referenced concerns about needed reforms and what the administration characterized as inappropriate political influence from member states on the agency.


Public Health Experts Condemn the Decision


Public health experts say the exit will hamper the nation's ability to produce vaccines and medicines to protect Americans from emerging diseases. They also warn that the withdrawal could undermine global health initiatives, including polio eradication efforts, maternal and pediatric health programs, and research to identify emerging viral threats.


Questions Linger Regarding Public Health Operations


The nation's withdrawal from the global health agency creates lingering questions. By leaving WHO, the U.S. no longer has access to international health data, which, among other applications, could help detect future pandemics early. The country has also ceased participation in WHO committees and technical working groups, including those that assess circulating flu strains and make recommendations for updating annual flu shots.


U.S.'s History of WHO Contribution


According to WHO officials, the U.S. still owes the agency more than $130 million in membership dues and other contributions. America has been among its largest contributors of funding and staffing since co-leading the agency's creation 78 years ago. On average, the nation contributed approximately $111 million annually in member dues and roughly $570 million more in voluntary contributions. Today, nearly every country in the world is part of the group.


WHO's Role in Global Public Health


The WHO serves as the United Nations' specialized health agency, tasked with coordinating responses to global health threats, including outbreaks of infectious diseases. The organization also provides technical assistance to countries with fewer resources, helps distribute vaccines and treatments, and establishes guidelines for numerous health conditions.


Federal Officials Signal Next Steps


Federal officials stated they are working to establish direct data-sharing arrangements with individual countries rather than relying on the WHO as an intermediary. However, specific details about how many such agreements are in place have not been provided.


Some experts have expressed skepticism about whether the U.S. can successfully negotiate bilateral agreements with many nations, particularly those with strained diplomatic relations.


Information in this article was sourced from AP News.

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