Trump’s Exit from WHO Creates Budget Strain
President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) has dealt a significant blow to the agency’s funding, depriving it of a key partner in addressing global public health challenges.
Although Trump initially attempted to exit the WHO during his first term, the move was reversed by then-President Joe Biden before taking effect. However, Trump’s renewed decision to withdraw now initiates a formal one-year process after notification to the United Nations.
Adding to the controversy, Trump has nominated vaccine skeptic and vocal WHO critic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as his health secretary. The WHO expressed regret over the decision, hoping Washington might reconsider.
U.S. Role in WHO Efforts
The United States has long been a critical supporter of WHO initiatives, contributing to global health campaigns against polio, Ebola, and HIV. The U.S. has also collaborated on addressing outbreaks like mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Marburg in Rwanda.
According to the WHO, “U.S.-WHO collaboration is vital in protecting and improving the health of Americans and people worldwide.”
Trump’s executive order halts future financial contributions to the WHO and recalls U.S. government personnel involved with the agency. Should the withdrawal proceed, the U.S. would join Liechtenstein as the only UN member state outside the WHO.
WHO’s Financial Landscape
Founded in 1948, the WHO relies on funding from its 194 member states and external donors. Historically, the agency depended on assessed contributions, or membership fees, calculated based on a country’s wealth and population. However, over time, it has leaned heavily on voluntary contributions earmarked for specific programs.
In the 2022–2023 budget cycle, assessed contributions accounted for just 12% of WHO funding. Recognizing the need for more flexible and reliable resources, member states committed to increasing membership fees to cover 50% of the budget by 2030.
The WHO’s total budget for the 2022–2023 cycle was $7.89 billion, with the U.S. contributing $1.3 billion, making it the top donor at 16.3% of total funding. Other significant contributors included Germany ($856 million), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation ($830 million), and the European Commission ($468 million).
China, which Trump criticized for contributing less while benefiting from WHO support, provided $157 million, placing 11th among donors.
Implications and Criticism
Trump’s criticism of the WHO included claims that the agency had taken advantage of U.S. contributions, asserting that Washington was paying disproportionately more than China. This move has raised concerns about the impact on global health programs reliant on U.S. support.
The WHO, now facing a funding gap, must navigate the challenges of maintaining its critical health initiatives without one of its largest benefactors.
