The United States is set to officially leave the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026, according to an announcement from the United Nations on Thursday. This follows a formal notification from President Donald Trump, citing dissatisfaction with the agency’s handling of the pandemic and other global health crises.
President Trump made the announcement on Monday, shortly after being sworn in for his second term. The WHO responded on Tuesday, expressing regret over the decision by its largest donor.
Formalities of the Withdrawal
Under a 1948 joint resolution of the U.S. Congress, Trump must provide a one-year notice of withdrawal and ensure the United States clears its financial obligations to the Geneva-based organization.
The United States is the WHO’s largest financial contributor, accounting for approximately 18% of its total funding. The WHO’s current two-year budget for 2024-2025 is $6.8 billion, though it remains unclear how much the U.S. still owes.
“We can confirm receipt of the U.S. letter regarding withdrawal from the WHO. The letter is dated January 22, 2025, and the withdrawal would take effect exactly one year later, on January 22, 2026,” said U.N. Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq.
Implications for Global Health Programs
Experts within and outside the WHO warn that the U.S. departure could jeopardize critical programs, particularly those combating tuberculosis—currently the world’s leading infectious disease killer—as well as HIV/AIDS and other health emergencies.
The withdrawal order signed by Trump also halts U.S. participation in negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty. It mandates the reassignment of U.S. government personnel working with the WHO and calls for alternative partnerships to sustain essential WHO activities.
Historical Context
This is not the first time President Trump has sought to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO. In 2020, during his first term, he initiated steps to exit the organization, criticizing its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, his plans were reversed when Joe Biden won the presidential election later that year. Upon taking office on January 20, 2021, Biden halted the withdrawal and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to the WHO.
The impending withdrawal reignites concerns over global health funding and the future of international cooperation in addressing critical health challenges.
