US completes legal process to leave WHO amid funding disputes and global concern
The United States is set to formally withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a year-long legal process initiated by President Donald Trump through an executive order issued on January 22, 2025. Under US law, exiting an international body requires a one-year notice period and the settlement of all outstanding financial obligations.
According to Reuters, the one-year notice period has now concluded, effectively marking the US exit from WHO, although no official announcement has yet been made. However, complications remain, as the US has reportedly failed to pay outstanding dues for 2024 and 2025, totaling approximately $260 million.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged Washington to reconsider, warning that US withdrawal would be harmful not only for global public health but also for America’s own health security. He expressed hope that the US would reverse its decision and continue its partnership with WHO.
Meanwhile, US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized the organization, claiming WHO has become entangled in bureaucracy, political interests, and global power struggles. Bill Gates, chairman of the Gates Foundation, stated he does not expect the US to rejoin WHO.
The US has historically been WHO’s largest donor, and its departure could significantly impact global health programs, vaccine campaigns, and pandemic preparedness worldwide.
