US officially exits World Health Organization under Trump administration

The United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO) on 22 January 2026, ending decades of membership and financial support for the United Nations agency. The move comes more than a year after President Donald Trump signed an executive order on 20 January 2025, criticizing the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleging undue political influence from member states.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said the withdrawal reflects concerns over the WHO’s “mishandling” of the pandemic, failure to implement needed reforms, and lack of independence. In response, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the exit as a loss for both the U.S. and the world, noting the organization’s work in combating polio, HIV, maternal mortality, and tobacco-related health risks.

The U.S. has historically been one of the WHO’s largest donors, contributing mandatory dues of around $111 million annually and voluntary contributions averaging $570 million per year. Nonpayment for 2024 and 2025, coupled with the official withdrawal, has already caused staffing reductions within the organization. U.S. officials estimate arrears could total $260 million, but Washington says it will not pay.

All U.S. personnel and contractors at WHO offices worldwide have been recalled, funding terminated, and hundreds of engagements suspended. Officials say future collaboration with WHO will be limited strictly to effectuate withdrawal and protect the health of Americans. The U.S. government plans to continue global public health efforts through direct bilateral partnerships with other countries, NGOs, and faith-based organizations, though specifics have not yet been disclosed.

While WHO member states have agreed on an international pandemic treaty to improve future responses, the U.S. did not participate. The treaty aims to ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments, strengthen outbreak preparedness, and prevent future delays in global health responses.

WHO has called the withdrawal a “setback for global health,” emphasizing that collaboration with the U.S. has saved countless lives. The agency will discuss the U.S. exit during its upcoming board meeting from 2 to 7 February in Geneva.