The Trump administration has formally finalized the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization. This marks the end of a year-long process initiated by an executive order signed on Trump’s inauguration day. The decision revives grievances aired during the COVID-19, including claims that WHO mishandled the crisis, failed to enact reforms, and operated under undue political influence. Although Trump attempted a similar exit in 2020, that move was reversed by President Biden, making this withdrawal both a return and an escalation.
The separation, however, comes with legal and financial complications. WHO rules require a one-year notice period and full payment of outstanding dues before a withdrawal can take effect. The U.S. owes roughly $278 million for 2024–2025 but has stated it will not pay. Legal experts disagree on whether the withdrawal without payment is valid, but most acknowledge there is little preventing the administration from moving forward in practice. WHO leadership has emphasized that member states will ultimately decide how and when the U.S. exit becomes effective.
Promise ring or not, the U.S. is out
WHO’s constitution does not allow member states to withdraw, a design choice meant to preserve global cooperation against infectious disease. The US, however, secured a unique reservation in 1948 granting itself the right to leave. Whether that right allows withdrawal without settling dues remains contested. While some experts describe the move as unlawful, others argue that U.S. sovereignty gives Washington wide latitude. WHO officials say the issue will be debated at upcoming executive and assembly meetings, even as the organization continues to express hope that the U.S. might reconsider and rejoin.
Now what?
The immediate concern centers on access to global disease surveillance and cooperation. Over the past year, WHO continued to include U.S. scientists in key meetings, but that access may now end. Health experts warn that exclusion from influenza and measles surveillance networks could weaken both U.S. and global preparedness, delaying outbreak detection and vaccine development. Critics describe the withdrawal as unprecedented and dangerous, while supporters argue the U.S. can still engage in global health through other international organizations.
Despite firm language from the State Department signaling no ongoing participation in WHO-led activities, some uncertainty remains. U.S. health officials have indicated discussions are underway about limited scientific involvement in specific meetings, suggesting that even amid a contentious breakup, practical cooperation may persist where mutual interests align.
Reference
Emanuel, G. (2026, January 22). The U.S. says its divorce from WHO is final on Jan. 22. Does WHO agree? NPR. https://www.npr.org/2026/01/20/g-s1-106126/trump-world-health-organization-withdrawal