US Withdrawal from WHO Officially Initiated

Geneva - The formal process for the United States to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) has commenced, with the notice of withdrawal having been received. The exit is set to take effect on January 22, 2026, bringing with it potential severe repercussions for global health initiatives.

In the previous year, the US government contributed approximately 18 percent of the WHO's budget. Their financial support included significant funding for critical health programs, covering 75 percent of the WHO's HIV and hepatitis initiatives, 61 percent of tuberculosis efforts, and 29 percent aimed at strengthening health systems in poorer nations during emergencies.

In addition to the withdrawal announcement, the current administration has directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to cease collaboration with the WHO. This partnership has been vital, as the CDC has provided essential analyses and expert support for assessing health threats and conducting pathogen research.

The WHO has expressed deep concern regarding the suspension of the US PEPFAR program, which has been instrumental in providing HIV medications to over 20 million individuals in more than 50 low-income countries, including over half a million children under the age of 15. The organization warns that lives are at risk, and years of progress in combating infections may be jeopardized.

Experts have voiced criticism regarding the US decision to exit the WHO, anticipating detrimental impacts not only on global health but also on the health landscape within the United States. The WHO plays a crucial role in curtailing disease outbreaks and facilitating vaccination campaigns globally, while also supporting developing countries in enhancing their healthcare systems, enabling rapid responses to health crises.

The WHO's budget for the 2024/2025 period has been set at $6.8 billion. The previous US administration had pledged $706 million, composed of both mandatory and voluntary contributions. As of January 2025, while the voluntary contribution of $442 million had already been fulfilled, the mandatory contribution of $264 million remains uncertain. It is unclear whether the current government will honor this financial commitment.

During the previous administration's funding cuts to the WHO, Germany stepped in as a major contributor, becoming the largest funder for the 2020/21 period. In 2022/23, Germany retained its position as the second-largest contributor after the US, providing around six percent of the WHO's budget for 2024, which amounted to $229 million, along with additional voluntary contributions of $260 million over four years.

China's financial support amounts to five percent of the budget, totaling $184 million, primarily from mandatory contributions, with a minimal voluntary contribution of $2.5 million.