WHO urges Trump to reconsider U.S. withdrawal

The World Health Organization (WHO) has appealed to President Donald Trump to reverse his decision to withdraw the United States from the organization, emphasizing its critical role in safeguarding global health, including that of Americans.

In a statement released on Tuesday, WHO expressed regret over Trump’s announcement and highlighted its efforts to combat health crises, strengthen health systems, and address disease outbreaks in challenging regions where few others can operate.

The organization noted that U.S. involvement has been instrumental in shaping global health policies and advancing key initiatives, pointing to historic successes like the eradication of smallpox and near-eradication of polio.

“The United States was a founding member of WHO in 1948 and has played an active role in shaping and governing WHO’s work alongside 193 other Member States. Together, we have saved countless lives and protected people from health threats. American institutions have greatly contributed to and benefited from WHO membership,” the statement read.

https://x.com/WHO/status/1881645479764615632?t=TbunNu9XKTXQwGt7Tvfo5w&s=19

Trump’s withdrawal decision came on Monday after he signed an executive order ending U.S. participation in the global health body. Speaking from the White House shortly after his inauguration, Trump criticized the organization, claiming it favored China despite the U.S. contributing significantly more funding. “World Health ripped us off,” he declared.

The announcement has sparked global reactions, with health experts warning that U.S. disengagement could weaken international efforts to tackle future pandemics and other health emergencies.