• The U.S. has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO).
• The decision was made due to alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic by the WHO.
• Experts warn that withdrawal could hinder U.S. response to future pandemics.
• The U.S. owes approximately $280 million in dues to the WHO.
• With U.S. absence, global health cooperation may be severely impacted.

The United States has officially ended its membership with the World Health Organization (WHO) after nearly 78 years. This withdrawal follows President Trump’s announcement made on January 20, 2025, when he criticized the agency for straying from its core mission and acting contrary to American interests, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services stated that the withdrawal was necessary due to the WHO’s alleged mishandling of the health crisis and failure to implement crucial reforms according to BBC, Africanews, and Los Angeles Times.

Health experts have raised concerns about the potential repercussions of this withdrawal on America’s ability to manage future health crises. According to public health law expert Lawrence Gostin, the exit will weaken America’s influence in global health governance, and restrict its scientists' ability to access important data and collaborate internationally on health threats. The withdrawal is seen as a significant setback for global health efforts, particularly in addressing pandemics effectively, as emphasized by Omer Awan, who called it a major blow to U.S. influence in health policy according to Africanews and Los Angeles Times.

The financial implications of this withdrawal are notable, with the U.S. reportedly owing about $280 million in dues. While U.S. officials have claimed they are no longer obligated to pay this amount, WHO representatives maintain that the country must fulfill its financial commitments. This financial disconnect has already led to substantial job losses within the agency, exacerbating the impact on global health initiatives, including crucial programs aimed at combating diseases such as polio and maternal health issues according to BBC, Los Angeles Times, and Africanews.

Moreover, with the U.S. officially withdrawing, it has ceased all participation in WHO-sponsored committees and governance, eliminating American input in critical health decisions. Experts argue that this move undermines the collective response to public health threats worldwide and diminishes the U.S. position as a leader in global health policy. This withdrawal could ultimately lead to weaker preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks, as highlighted by public health experts across various sources including Los Angeles Times and Africanews.