WHO Regrets US Withdrawal

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States' decision to withdraw from the organization, citing concerns about global health security. The US, as a founding member, has played a significant role in many of WHO's achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and progress against public health threats like polio, HIV, and Ebola .

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the US withdrawal makes both the country and the world less safe. He emphasized that WHO has always engaged with the US in good faith and with respect for its sovereignty .

The US government cited WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, accusing the organization of "trashing and tarnishing" its reputation and undermining its independence. The US also claimed that WHO followed a "politicised, bureaucratic agenda" favoring countries hostile to American interests .

WHO denied these claims, saying it acted quickly and transparently during the pandemic, sharing all available information and advising countries based on the best scientific evidence. The organization emphasized its impartiality and commitment to serving all member states with respect for their sovereignty .

The US withdrawal will deprive WHO of its largest donor, exacerbating a funding crisis that has already led to a 22% reduction in the organization's workforce. The loss of US funding will also impact WHO's ability to respond to global health emergencies and address pressing health issues .

The WHO Executive Board will discuss the US withdrawal at its meeting starting February 2, 2026, and the World Health Assembly will review the matter at its annual meeting in May 2026. WHO hopes the US will return to active participation in the future .