The possibility of the United States withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO) has resurfaced in political discussions, primarily driven by the incoming Trump administration’s critique of the organization’s effectiveness and perceived biases.
The US has had a tumultuous relationship with the WHO, especially highlighted during the Trump administration’s tenure, when the US announced a withdrawal from the organization in 2020 due to allegations of mismanagement and undue Chinese influence.
However, this withdrawal, which would have come into effect by July 6, 2021, was reversed by the Biden administration, which emphasized a return to global health leadership.
Why is a withdrawal being reconsidered?
Critics argue that US participation in the WHO may compromise national sovereignty, particularly with policies or decisions that could conflict with domestic health strategies and adversely affect autonomous health policy-making.
The US has historically been one of the largest financial contributors to the WHO. There is an argument that redirecting these funds could support more direct or national health initiatives, potentially offering better outcomes for American citizens.
Withdrawal might also be seen as a strategic move to recalibrate US influence in global health governance, especially if there’s a perception that the current WHO leadership does not align with US interests.
Some analysts argue that the threat of withdrawal could be used as leverage to push for reforms within the WHO, ensuring it operates more in line with US expectations for transparency and accountability.
There’s also a lingering critique from some political factions about the WHO’s handling of global health crises, particularly the initial response to the COVID-19 outbreak, with accusations of the organization favoring certain nations or political ideologies.
What happens if the US withdraws from WHO?
A US exit would undoubtedly impact the WHO’s operational capacity, given the significant financial contributions from the US. This could lead to reduced effectiveness in global health emergency responses and disease eradication efforts.
Without US leadership, there might be a shift in power dynamics within the WHO, potentially giving more influence to other nations like China, a scenario that has been a point of contention in previous US administrations.