The United States formally withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026, following a directive initiated by President Trump through Executive Order 14155, signed on January 20, 2025. The decision stemmed from concerns regarding the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, originating in Wuhan, China, as well as perceived shortcomings in the organization’s accountability, transparency, and reform efforts.
Actions Taken During Withdrawal
To enact the withdrawal, the U.S. government took several key steps. All U.S. government funding to the WHO was terminated, and personnel and contractors were recalled from WHO offices globally, including its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Hundreds of engagements with the WHO were suspended or discontinued.
The U.S. also ceased participation in WHO-sponsored committees, leadership bodies, governance structures, and technical working groups. This withdrawal fulfilled a stated priority of the Trump Administration dating back to 2020, when concerns about the WHO’s response to COVID-19 were first raised.
Implications for Global Health
Following the withdrawal, the U.S. asserts its continued role as a leading authority in public health. The government stated it will focus on rapid detection and response to outbreaks, strengthening global biosecurity, and driving health innovation. These efforts are intended to protect Americans and provide benefits to U.S. allies through targeted cooperation.
Financial Considerations
The decision to withdraw also addresses concerns about financial contributions. For years, the U.S. has carried a disproportionate share of the WHO’s financial burden, providing approximately $111 million annually in assessed contributions and roughly $570 million per year in voluntary contributions. This amounted to billions of dollars over time, often exceeding the combined contributions of other member states.
The U.S. intends to continue leading global health efforts independently, engaging partners directly and ensuring accountability outside of WHO structures.
What Happens Next?
The completion of the legal withdrawal process marks a significant change in the landscape of global health cooperation. It is possible that other nations may reassess their own contributions and engagement with the WHO. The U.S. could establish new bilateral partnerships to address health security threats, or may seek to influence WHO policies from outside the organization. Analysts expect the impact of this withdrawal will be closely monitored by the international community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the U.S. withdraw from the WHO?
The decision was driven by perceived failures in the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, its lack of accountability, transparency, and its refusal to implement necessary reforms.
What actions did the U.S. take to complete its withdrawal?
The U.S. terminated funding to the WHO, recalled its personnel, suspended engagements with the organization, and ceased participation in WHO committees and governance structures.
Will the U.S. continue to be involved in global health efforts?
Yes, the U.S. stated it will continue to lead global health efforts independently, engaging partners directly and focusing on rapid detection, response, and innovation.
How might this shift in U.S. policy affect international cooperation on future health crises?