- President Donald Trump issued an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organisation (WHO) on his first day back in office
- Trump’s criticisms of the WHO dated back to 2020, when he criticised its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic
- WHO expressed regret, and called for constructive dialogue to address the decision
President Donald Trump announced the United States’ decision to withdraw from the World Health Organisation (WHO) on his first day back in the White House, a move that quickly sparked criticism from public health experts.
In response, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jašarević expressed regret over the decision during a press briefing in Geneva on January 21.
WHO regrets US decision to withdraw
“The World Health Organisation regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the Organisation,” WHO stated.
He emphasised the organisation's desire for constructive dialogue, noting that the United States had been an integral member of the WHO since its founding in 1948, helping shape the organisation's policies alongside 193 other member states.
“We hope the United States will reconsider and 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,” WHO stated.
“For over seven decades, WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats. Together, we ended smallpox, and together we have brought polio to the brink of eradication. American institutions have contributed to and benefited from membership in WHO.”
Trump cites mishandling of pandemic, financial concerns
Recall that in an executive order issued on January 20, just hours after his inauguration, President Trump cited several reasons for withdrawing from the WHO.
These included the organisation’s alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its failure to implement necessary reforms.
He also criticised the financial contributions required from the U.S., claiming they were disproportionately high compared to other countries, particularly China.
The decision to withdraw had been expected as the US President had been vocal in his criticisms of the WHO since 2020, particularly regarding its response to the coronavirus outbreak, and had threatened to cut U.S. funding.
In July 2020, he formally initiated the process to withdraw the US from the organisation. However, following his defeat in the 2020 presidential election, the withdrawal process was blocked from taking effect by the ex-President, Joe Biden.
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