- US Formally Notifies UN of Withdrawal from World Health Organization
- US to Withdraw from WHO in 2026, Impacting Global Health Programs
- UN Confirms US Departure from WHO After Formal Notification
The United States has formally notified the United Nations of its intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), effective January 22, 2026. This decision, announced by the US President on Monday, has sparked concern and criticism from global health experts who fear it could jeopardize critical health programs worldwide.
The US is the WHO's largest financial contributor, providing approximately 18% of its funding. This withdrawal could significantly impact the organization's ability to address global health challenges, including the fight against tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other infectious diseases.
According to a UN spokesperson, the US has fulfilled the requirement of providing a one-year notice for withdrawal as stipulated in a 1948 joint resolution. The withdrawal process also mandates the US to settle its financial obligations to the WHO.
Experts have expressed concerns about the potential consequences of this decision, particularly for vulnerable populations who rely on WHO programs. The withdrawal could hinder global efforts to combat infectious diseases and respond to health emergencies.
This is not the first time the US has initiated the process of leaving the WHO. A similar attempt was made in 2020, but the withdrawal was halted by the subsequent administration.
The decision has reignited the debate about the role of the US in global health leadership and the importance of international cooperation in addressing health crises.
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