Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), reigniting a contentious issue from his previous administration. The decision, signed on his first day back in the White House, has drawn criticism from public health experts and international stakeholders.
Trump has long been critical of the United Nations health agency, accusing it of mismanagement and political bias. His administration initially initiated the withdrawal process in July 2020, amid the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this move was reversed in early 2021 by President Joe Biden, who prioritized U.S. engagement with the WHO as part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen global health cooperation.
In his new executive order, Trump cited several reasons for the withdrawal, including the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, its failure to implement essential reforms, and its perceived vulnerability to political influence from member states.
“That’s a big one,” Trump remarked to an aide as he signed the order, referencing his earlier decision in 2020. He also reiterated concerns over the U.S.’s disproportionate financial contributions to the organization compared to other member nations.
During his previous term, Trump frequently accused the WHO of aiding China in allegedly concealing the origins of COVID-19 and enabling its global spread. His latest decision underscores his ongoing criticism of the agency and reflects his administration’s emphasis on reshaping international relationships.
The move has sparked renewed debate among global health experts and policymakers about the role of the U.S. in addressing international health challenges. Many have warned that the withdrawal could weaken global efforts to combat pandemics and other pressing health crises.
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