The White House has issued an executive order outlining the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing concerns over the organisation’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, political influence, and financial imbalances. The decision, signed on January 20, 2025, represents a significant shift in U.S. global health policy.
According to the order, the withdrawal is motivated by WHO’s alleged failure to implement necessary reforms and its perceived susceptibility to undue political influence. The executive order also highlights financial discrepancies, noting that despite having a population one-third that of China, the United States contributes significantly more to the WHO budget.
Key Provisions of the Executive Order as stated on the White House official website
- Revocation of Prior Commitments
The executive order rescinds a previous letter to the United Nations Secretary-General, which had reversed the United States’ initial withdrawal notification in 2020. Additionally, it nullifies Executive Order 13987, issued in January 2021, which emphasized U.S. leadership in global health and pandemic preparedness. - Reallocation of Resources
The order instructs the Secretary of State and the Office of Management and Budget to halt future funding to the WHO and redirect resources to credible alternatives. U.S. personnel and contractors working with the WHO will also be recalled. - Global Health Strategy Overhaul
The Director of the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy is tasked with revising the 2024 U.S. Global Health Security Strategy. The aim is to ensure a robust and transparent approach to biosecurity and pandemic response independent of WHO frameworks. - International Health Negotiations Suspended
The United States will withdraw from negotiations on the WHO Pandemic Agreement and amendments to the International Health Regulations. The order specifies that these agreements will no longer hold binding authority over the U.S.
A Controversial Move
The decision to withdraw has reignited debates over the role of the United States in global health governance. Critics argue that disengagement from the WHO could undermine international health cooperation, particularly in addressing future pandemics. Proponents of the move contend it is necessary to ensure accountability and fiscal fairness in global health initiatives.
As the withdrawal process moves forward, the White House has emphasised its commitment to finding “credible and transparent” partners to undertake activities previously managed by the WHO. The State Department will also formally notify the United Nations and WHO leadership of the withdrawal.
The executive order marks a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy and its approach to global health, signaling a departure from multilateralism in favour of a more independent stance.
A Reuters report also said that the U.S. withdrawal is expected to jeopardise programmes across the organisation, according to experts both within and outside the WHO, particularly those focused on combating tuberculosis—the world’s deadliest infectious disease—as well as HIV/AIDS and other health emergencies.
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