The United States is set to formally leave the World Health Organisation after President Donald Trump issued a withdrawal notice on the first day of his 2025 presidency. Moreover, US law requires a one year notice period and full payment of outstanding dues before the exit becomes legally valid. Despite this rule, Washington has moved forward while still owing around 260 million dollars in unpaid fees to the agency. As a result, the decision has created serious legal and diplomatic concerns.
US officials argue that the organisation failed to properly manage and share critical health information, which they claim caused massive economic damage during past global health emergencies. Therefore, the administration decided to freeze all future funding and support, saying American taxpayers have already paid more than enough. At the same time, officials insist that the financial pause covers any outstanding obligations to the organisation. However, critics say this approach breaks domestic law and weakens global cooperation.
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Meanwhile, health experts and international leaders have urged the US to reconsider its move, warning that it could harm both national and global public health systems. The head of the World Health Organisation recently said that the withdrawal would be a loss for the United States and for the entire world. He stressed that cooperation is essential to fight future outbreaks and health crises. Still, current signals suggest Washington is unlikely to change course soon.
Global health leaders also believe a quick return to the organisation is not expected, even though many continue to push for dialogue and renewed cooperation. Influential voices from the health sector have said they will keep advocating for the United States to rejoin in the future. They argue that strong global health bodies are vital for sharing data, coordinating responses, and saving lives worldwide. Without US involvement, these efforts could become less effective.
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For the World Health Organisation, the US exit has triggered a major financial crisis that has already forced deep budget cuts and staff reductions. The United States previously provided about 18 percent of the agency’s total funding, making it its largest contributor by far. Because of this gap, the organisation plans to reduce its workforce by nearly one quarter this year. These cuts will limit research, disease control programs, and emergency response work.
Health experts warn that the move could weaken global systems that detect and respond to dangerous diseases before they spread across borders. In addition, reduced cooperation between the US and the agency could slow the sharing of critical health data. This situation may leave both Americans and the rest of the world more exposed to future outbreaks. Therefore, many believe the decision carries serious long term risks for global safety.