Private Blog Network – The United States will officially exit the World Health Organization (WHO) in January 2026, following a formal notice submitted to the United Nations. UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq confirmed on Thursday that the withdrawal process began after President Donald Trump sent an official letter dated January 22, 2025.
Trump, who pledged to leave the WHO on his first day in office, also directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Office of Management and Budget to halt future US funding for the organization. Additionally, Washington has recalled all US government personnel working with WHO, instructing them to cease involvement in global pandemic treaty negotiations.
The decision marks a significant shift in US global health policy, with critics warning of potential consequences for international health initiatives. The move follows previous tensions between the Trump administration and WHO over pandemic response strategies and funding priorities.
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US Withdrawal from WHO Poses Financial and Health Challenges
With the US set to leave the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2026, the agency will lose its largest financial contributor. The US currently funds about 18% of WHO’s budget, contributing approximately $261 million between 2024 and 2025. China follows as the second-largest donor, contributing $181 million. Experts warn that this funding gap could weaken WHO’s ability to tackle global health challenges, including tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and pandemic preparedness.
President Donald Trump had previously attempted to withdraw the US from WHO in July 2020, citing its alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the move was reversed when Joe Biden took office in 2021. Now, Trump has revived the withdrawal process as part of his policy agenda.
Critics argue that the decision could hinder international health responses and limit global cooperation on disease control. With the US pulling out, WHO may struggle to maintain its current operations, raising concerns about future global health security.
Calls for Dialogue as US Faces Legal Hurdles Over Withdrawal
The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed deep regret over the US decision to withdraw by 2026, emphasizing its critical role in protecting global health, including American citizens. In a statement on Tuesday, the WHO urged the US to reconsider, stressing the importance of continued cooperation for the well-being of millions worldwide.
Legal experts question whether President Donald Trump can unilaterally remove the US from WHO without congressional approval. The US originally joined WHO in 1948 through joint resolutions from both houses of Congress, raising concerns about the legality of Trump’s move. Professor Jean Galbraith of the University of Pennsylvania Law School pointed out that such a withdrawal could face legal challenges.
Health law expert Lawrence Gostin argued that Congress and the courts should have a say in such a significant decision. He also hinted at potential lawsuits to challenge the withdrawal, calling the move “catastrophic” for global health security. Meanwhile, the international community watches closely as the situation unfolds.