U. S. Leaves WHO: A Clash of Claims and Consequences

A Contentious Split

The U. S. made a significant decision in January 2025 to leave the World Health Organization (WHO). This move was not amicable. The Trump administration accused the WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, claiming the organization did not share information quickly or honestly.

However, the WHO disagrees. They assert that they did their best to share information and guide countries based on the best evidence available.

WHO's Response

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO's director, took to social media to respond. He stated that the reasons given by the U. S. for leaving were "untrue". He also emphasized that the WHO never forced any country to lock down or mandate masks and vaccines. Instead, the WHO provided advice, and each country made its own decisions.

U.S. Secretary's Claims

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the U. S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, made claims about the WHO. He asserted that the U. S. was reclaiming its independence. However, Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's technical lead, disagreed. She stated that the WHO detected the COVID-19 signal early and never ignored science or Taiwan's concerns.

Potential Consequences

The U. S. decision to leave the WHO could have significant consequences. It might impact how the U. S. responds to future health threats. The WHO plays a crucial role in sharing information about new diseases. Without the WHO, the U. S. might miss out on important updates, leaving Americans vulnerable to new health threats.

U.S. Plans for a Global Health System

The U. S. plans to set up its own global health system. However, given the struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic, this seems like a tall order. The U. S. couldn't even set up a good system within its own borders. Leaving the WHO might not be the best move for American health.