The United States has officially exited the World Health Organization (WHO), ending its 78-year membership. The withdrawal, effective January 22, 2026, follows a year-long process ordered by former President Donald Trump, who cited the WHO’s alleged lack of accountability, transparency, and independence from China during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The White House confirmed that the exit fulfills Trump’s executive order aimed at reforming the global health body. The US had been the WHO’s largest contributor, providing roughly 18% of its budget, a move experts warn could impact global disease surveillance, pandemic preparedness, and coordinated health responses.
In response, WHO expressed regret and called for continued cooperation, while US officials stated Washington will seek alternative multilateral and bilateral health partnerships outside the WHO framework. The decision signals a significant shift in global health governance and funding, raising questions about the future effectiveness of international health collaboration.
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