US Withdraws from World Health Organization

On January 22, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced the United States’ completion of its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). In a press release by the HHS, the cause of withdrawal was stated as the WHO’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, its failure to adopt urgently needed reforms, and its inability to demonstrate independence from inappropriate political influence by member states.

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a joint statement, in which they stated, “Like many international organizations, the WHO abandoned its core mission and acted repeatedly against the interests of the United States.”

WHO issued a response recognizing the US's past contributions. The organization expressed regret regarding the decision, which it stated, “makes both the United States and the world less safe.” Furthermore, the WHO stated that the notification of withdrawal raised issues that would be considered by the WHO Executive Board at its regular meeting. However, WHO stated it stood by its response to the pandemic. “WHO acted quickly, shared all information it had rapidly and transparently with the world, and advised Member States on the basis of the best available evidence.”

WHO expressed hope that the US will return to active participation in WHO.