US Withdrawal from the WHO under Donald Trump
The decision by Donald Trump to sever the United States' links with the World Health Organization (WHO) was anticipated. This move follows his earlier efforts during his first tenure as President to exit the global health body, citing its alleged failure to hold China accountable for the Covid-19 pandemic.
Key Actions and Implications
- The US President has instructed US agencies to:
- Pause the transfer of funds or resources to the WHO.
- Identify credible partners to take over activities previously managed by the WHO.
- The executive order overlooks the WHO's critical role in managing global health emergencies.
- The WHO is unparalleled in its reach and authority to address infectious diseases and establish protocols for international outbreaks.
Historical Context and US-WHO Relationship
- The US has been a founding member and historically the largest financial supporter of the WHO.
- The relationship extends beyond financial support, including:
- Participation in WHO treaties, such as the organization's constitution and International Health Regulations.
- Collaboration with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, playing a major role in eradicating smallpox.
- Utilization of WHO's extensive network by US entities like Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and its pharma industry.
Potential Consequences of Withdrawal
- Trump's order to halt negotiations on the WHO Pandemic Agreement poses a significant risk to global health security.
- The withdrawal could weaken the US's ability to respond to health crises and affect global partnerships.
Need for WHO Reforms
While the WHO requires reforms, especially in governance and funding as highlighted by the Covid-19 pandemic, addressing these issues requires active engagement rather than isolation. Weakening the WHO's role could diminish global health resilience, affecting both developing and developed nations, including the US.
