Trump Withdraws U.S. from WHO, Citing Pandemic Concerns

WPS News Staff Reporter
Baybay City | January 22, 2025

In a controversial move reinstating his earlier health policies, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) shortly after his inauguration as the 47th President on January 20, 2025. This decision signals a renewed commitment to a more nationalistic approach to international health cooperation, echoing actions from his previous term.

President Trump has accused the WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout his first term, his administration criticized the agency for its response to the pandemic and its management of various international health crises. By pulling the U.S. from the WHO, Trump is emphasizing a belief that such global entities do not sufficiently safeguard American interests.

This withdrawal occurs amidst ongoing debates concerning the U.S. role in global health governance. Proponents of international cooperation argue that such disengagement weakens collective responses to worldwide health emergencies. Critics assert that the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic diminished its credibility, supporting Trump’s stance.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trump administration faced extensive criticism for its approach, which included endorsing unproven treatments such as the use of horse dewormer. These actions were viewed by many as ineffective and misleading, contributing to a high mortality rate among Americans.

Many see the withdrawal as an attempt by Trump to distance himself from past criticisms and redirect blame towards the WHO. While his decision aligns with his broader strategy to reshape U.S. engagement on the world stage, it remains to be seen how this will affect global health initiatives and America’s standing in international health affairs.