WHO Hopes Trump Will Reconsider US Withdrawal from the Agency
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed hope that U.S. President Donald Trump will reconsider his decision to withdraw from the agency, following an executive order he signed on his first day back in office. The WHO’s statement, issued Tuesday, highlighted the critical role the organization plays in global health, including efforts to combat disease outbreaks and build stronger health systems.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement, “The World Health Organization regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the Organization.”
Trump’s executive order, signed on Monday, cited several reasons for the U.S. withdrawal, including allegations of the WHO’s “mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic” and its failure to enact needed reforms. The order also criticized the organization for what it described as a lack of independence from political influences of member states.
Despite these claims, WHO emphasized the importance of its work in addressing global health challenges, including disease detection, prevention, and response—efforts that often occur in areas where others cannot reach. The organization underscored that the United States, as a founding member of the WHO since 1948, has played a key role in its mission.
“We hope the United States will reconsider,” the WHO’s statement continued. “We look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe.”
In light of the significant impact of global health crises, the WHO remains committed to its mission of promoting public health worldwide, including in the United States.
