The World Health Organization (WHO) warned Tuesday that the US exit threatens global health security. US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, initiating the withdrawal.
The one-year exit process is set to complete next week, marking a historic shift. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision. “Leaving WHO endangers the US and the world alike,” Tedros said from Geneva headquarters.
He emphasized that US health security relies heavily on WHO-led international cooperation. “Many health programs benefit the United States directly, including emergency preparedness measures,” he added.
Tedros urged Washington to reconsider and rejoin the global health agency immediately. WHO’s chief legal officer, Steve Solomon, clarified that the withdrawal timeline remains uncertain. He explained the WHO constitution lacks a formal exit clause, complicating US departure procedures.
The United States must give one year’s notice and fulfill financial obligations to finalize withdrawal. Currently, the US owes outstanding payments for 2024 and 2025, Solomon revealed. Member states must evaluate whether the withdrawal conditions have been fully met.
Tedros stressed that global funding cuts have severely impacted health systems worldwide. However, he emphasized that solidarity and cooperation outweigh financial concerns in public health.
“Preparing for viruses like COVID-19 requires collective action, not just money,” he insisted. “Solidarity forms the best immunity against global health threats,” the WHO chief concluded. Experts warn that US absence could hinder pandemic response and emergency preparedness worldwide.
Global health advocates continue urging dialogue and collaboration to protect international health security.
