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United States to Leave World Health Organization
Date and Announcement
Why did trump withdraw from the world health organization 3 Reasons for Withdrawal:
Political Influence:
Trump claimed the WHO was influenced by certain countries, particularly China, instead of acting independently.Unfair Payments:
The U.S. president said that America was paying more than its fair share, while larger countries like China contributed less.Criticism of WHO:
Trump stated, “The WHO has taken advantage of the U.S., and this won’t continue
WHO's Reaction:
The WHO expressed disappointment:
- A spokesperson, Tarik Jasarevic, urged the U.S. to reconsider for the benefit of global health.
- The organization emphasized the importance of cooperation for the well-being of people worldwide.
Impact of U.S. Withdrawal:
12-Month Notice Period:
The U.S. has to wait 12 months before fully leaving the WHO. During this time, financial contributions will stop.Financial Impact:
- The U.S. is the largest contributor to the WHO, funding about 18% of its budget.
- The WHO’s 2024-2025 budget is $6.8 billion. Losing U.S. funding may affect key programs for diseases like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
Global Concern:
- Experts worry about setbacks in fighting health crises.
- Lawrence Gostin, a health law expert, called it “the darkest day for global health.
Actions by the U.S. Government
Pandemic Treaty:
The U.S. will stop talks about the WHO’s pandemic treaty.Personnel Changes:
American workers with the WHO will be reassigned.New Strategy:
A new U.S. Global Health Security Strategy will replace the existing one.
Response from Other Countries and Organizations
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation:
The foundation, the WHO’s second-largest donor, promised to continue supporting the organization.Germany:
Germany, the third-largest contributor, hopes to persuade the U.S. to reverse its decision.China:
China stated its continued support for the WHO and urged stronger international health cooperation.
Background on Trump's Decision
Previous Attempts:
Trump first tried to leave the WHO in 2020, accusing it of helping China hide the origins of COVID-19.WHO’s Denial:
The WHO denies these claims and says it is still pressing China to share more data about the origins of COVID-19.Legal Requirements for Leaving:
U.S. law requires a one-year notice and payment of any unpaid fees before fully leaving the WHO.
Historical Context
In 2021, when Trump attempted a similar withdrawal, it was reversed by President Joe Biden on his first day in office.
What is Who:
The WHO works with countries, organizations, and people to:
- Help everyone stay healthy.
- Protect the world from diseases.
- Support people who need help.
Its main goal is to make sure everyone, everywhere can live a healthy life.
What they do:
The World Health Organization (WHO) works to make sure everyone has access to healthcare.
It helps the world respond to health emergencies and supports people to live healthier lives, from pregnancy to old age.
The WHO has a big plan called the Triple Billion Targets. This plan uses science to create programs and policies to help everyone achieve good health.
