Kehinde Fajobi
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the organisation, urging the country to reconsider.
In a statement posted on its X account on Tuesday, the WHO highlighted its critical role in global health, including addressing diseases, strengthening health systems, and responding to emergencies in difficult environments.
The announcement followed an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump on Monday, directing the country’s withdrawal.
Speaking at the White House, Trump criticised the organisation, stating, “World Health ripped us off,” and accused the US of paying disproportionately more than China.
This is Trump’s second attempt to exit the WHO. During his first term, his administration issued a similar withdrawal notice, citing claims that the organisation was overly influenced by China during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. That decision was later reversed by former President Joe Biden.
The new executive order instructed federal agencies to “pause the future transfer of any United States Government funds, support, or resources to the WHO” and to find “credible and transparent United States and international partners to assume necessary activities previously undertaken by the WHO.”
Additionally, the administration announced plans to review and repeal Biden’s 2024 US Global Health Security Strategy, which focused on combating infectious disease threats.
In its statement, WHO emphasised the historic contributions of the US since it became a founding member in 1948, crediting American involvement with shaping global health policies and achievements such as eradicating smallpox and nearly eliminating 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 organisation stated.
The WHO also noted reforms over the past seven years to improve accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact.
The statement concluded, “We hope the United States will reconsider and look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain this partnership, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe.”