In July 2020, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to begin the formal process of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision came amid growing tensions between the U.S. and the international body, particularly over the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump criticized the organization for its response to the outbreak, accusing it of being overly influenced by China and failing to address the spread of the virus effectively in its early stages.
The executive order outlined a six-month process to formally exit the WHO, which involved the U.S. ceasing financial contributions to the organization and ending its membership. Trump’s administration argued that the WHO had mismanaged the pandemic and needed reform to ensure greater transparency and accountability. The U.S. had been one of the largest financial contributors to the WHO, and this decision raised concerns about the potential consequences for global health efforts.
Trump’s move to withdraw was met with backlash from public health experts, international leaders, and many U.S. lawmakers. Critics argued that leaving the WHO during a global health crisis would undermine international cooperation in fighting the pandemic and other public health challenges. Additionally, many expressed concern about the loss of American influence in shaping global health policies.
Despite the withdrawal order, it was not immediately clear whether the decision would be fully implemented or reversed by future administrations. Joe Biden, who won the 2020 presidential election, pledged to rejoin the WHO as soon as he took office in January 2021. The Trump administration’s decision marked a significant moment in U.S. foreign policy and global health, signaling a shift toward isolationism at a time when international collaboration was crucial.
