The United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing the agency’s inadequate response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision, announced on July 6, 2021, highlights ongoing concerns regarding the WHO’s accountability and transparency in handling global health crises.
U.S. officials criticized the WHO for delaying the declaration of a global public health emergency. They argue that this delay cost the world valuable time during the early stages of the pandemic, allowing the virus to spread unchecked. According to the U.S. government, the organization “echoed and praised China’s response” despite evidence indicating early underreporting and misinformation regarding the virus’s transmissibility.
In a joint statement, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the WHO for allegedly pursuing a “politicized, bureaucratic agenda.” They stated that this approach hindered the timely sharing of critical information that could have saved lives in the United States, masking its shortcomings under the guise of public health interests.
Moving forward, U.S. officials indicated that the country will engage with the WHO solely to finalize its withdrawal and to ensure the health and safety of American citizens. As part of this transition, the U.S. currently owes more than $130 million to the WHO. While officials have acknowledged unresolved issues, such as the loss of access to vital data from other countries, they remain committed to global health leadership.
Historically, the United States played a significant role in the formation of the WHO, contributing hundreds of millions of dollars and personnel with public health expertise. On average, the U.S. contributes $111 million annually in membership dues and approximately $570 million in voluntary contributions.
Despite withdrawing from the WHO, the U.S. government plans to maintain its leadership in global health through collaborations with other nations, private sector entities, non-governmental organizations, and faith-based groups. Officials emphasized that U.S.-led initiatives will prioritize emergency response, biosecurity coordination, and health innovation, aiming to protect American interests while providing benefits to partners worldwide.
The decision to sever ties with the WHO marks a significant shift in U.S. public health policy and raises questions about the future of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges. As the situation evolves, the implications for both American and global health systems remain to be seen.
