U. S. Exits WHO: A Shift in Global Health Leadership

In a move that has stirred up quite a bit of debate, the United States has officially stepped back from the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision comes a year after President Donald Trump first announced the intention to leave the global health body.

Reasons for Withdrawal

The Trump administration claims the WHO mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic and did not make necessary changes, plus faced political pressure from some members.

Historical Context

The U. S. has been a big deal in the WHO since its creation in 1948. It has been one of the most influential members and the largest financial supporter. But now, the U. S. is saying goodbye to this long-standing partnership.

Criticism and Concerns

Critics are not happy about this. Dr. Ronald Nahass, president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, called the move "scientifically reckless." He argued that global cooperation is not a choice but a must for fighting infectious diseases.

Future of U. S. in Global Health

The U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) says the country will still be involved in global health efforts. But instead of working through the WHO, it will partner directly with other countries, private sector groups, and non-governmental organizations. Agencies like the CDC, NIH, and FDA will lead these efforts.

Financial and Operational Changes

• All U. S. staff working with WHO offices have been called back.
• Nearly $280 million in U. S. funding has been stopped.
• The WHO says the U. S. still needs to settle some financial commitments before the withdrawal is complete.
• The WHO's executive board plans to review the matter in February.

Expert Opinions

Public health experts are worried. They say this move could make it harder to track and respond to diseases worldwide. Plus, the U. S. is also stopping funding for Gavi, a group that helps provide vaccines in lower-income countries. Staffing cuts have also reduced the CDC’s global health operations.

Lawrence Gostin, a Georgetown University law professor who works with WHO programs, was skeptical. He told The Washington Post, "It’s almost laughable that the Trump administration thinks they can lead in global health. They’ve decimated the global health capacities of the CDC. They’ve slashed global health funding around the world."

Impact on Health Meetings

There are also questions about how this withdrawal will affect major health meetings. Next month, the WHO plans to gather flu experts to decide which virus strains should be included in next season’s vaccine. U. S. scientists helped with that effort last year. HHS officials said talks are ongoing about whether CDC experts will be allowed to join the next meeting.