What does the US withdrawal from the WHO mean for global health?

In January 2026, the United States finalized its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), ending its membership since 1948. US officials cited concerns about the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for the departure. The US also halted funding to the WHO and limited future engagement. This action has raised concerns about potential negative consequences for global health initiatives and international cooperation in addressing health crises. The withdrawal marks a significant shift in the US's relationship with the WHO and its role in global health governance.

In January 2026, the United States officially withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the first time since the WHO's creation in 1948 that the US is not a member. The announcement was made jointly by US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. They cited the WHO's "failures during the COVID-19 pandemic" as the primary reason for the withdrawal, stating that US engagement would now be limited to facilitating the withdrawal and safeguarding American health. All US funding for the WHO has ceased. The WHO has responded to the funding shortfalls by making cuts. The United Nations expressed its desire for the US to remain a full participant in the WHO, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation on health issues.

In January 2025, the United States formally completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), one year after President Trump ordered the departure. The US is leaving behind approximately $260 million in unpaid debt to the organization. All funding to the WHO has been terminated, and US personnel working with the agency have been recalled. The US has also ceased participation in WHO leadership bodies and working groups. Trump initiated the withdrawal, citing the WHO's alleged mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic, failure to reform, and susceptibility to political influence. While WHO regulations require a one-year notice and debt settlement for withdrawal, a US official stated there was no legal requirement to settle the debt before exiting.