US Initiates WHO Withdrawal, Freezes Funding

The United States has taken formal steps to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), reversing its previous reengagement with the UN health agency and setting in motion a broad reconfiguration of its global health and biosecurity strategy.

An executive order signed at the White House revokes the 2021 presidential letter that rescinded the original 2020 withdrawal notice and formally reactivates the US intention to exit the WHO. The administration cites dissatisfaction with the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns over governance reforms, and what it describes as disproportionate financial obligations placed on the United States compared with other member states.

US President Donald Trump marked the start of his administration by announcing the country’s withdrawal from the WHO on Jan. 20, 2025, immediately after his inauguration. That month, the WHO also expressed regret over the decision, emphasizing its continued commitment to global health cooperation.

According to the WHO, the United States, a founding member since 1948, has historically shaped the WHO’s policies and governance. Over more than seven decades, collaborative efforts between the United States and the WHO led to health milestones, including the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio. 

According to the order, US officials argue that the WHO failed to demonstrate sufficient independence from political influence by its member countries during recent global health crises, including the pandemic that originated in Wuhan, China. The document also highlights long-standing funding concerns, noting that while China’s population is roughly three times that of the United States, its assessed contribution to the WHO is significantly lower.

As part of the withdrawal process, the administration revoked Executive Order 13987, which organized a unified federal response to COVID-19 and emphasized US leadership in global health and security through multilateral engagement. The reversal signals a shift away from WHO-centered coordination toward alternative mechanisms.

The order directs the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs to establish new directorates and coordination mechanisms within the National Security Council to safeguard public health and strengthen biosecurity. This move places pandemic preparedness and health security more firmly within the national security framework.

Operationally, the Secretary of State and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget have been instructed to pause future transfers of US government funds, support, or resources to the WHO. They are also tasked with recalling and reassigning US personnel and contractors currently working with the organization. In parallel, US authorities are to identify domestic and international partners capable of assuming activities previously carried out by the WHO with US involvement.

The withdrawal also affects international negotiations. While the process is underway, the United States will cease participation in talks related to the WHO Pandemic Agreement and proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations. Any actions taken to advance those instruments will not be considered binding on the United States.

In addition, the Director of the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy is instructed to review and replace the 2024 US Global Health Security Strategy, signaling a forthcoming revision of the country’s approach to international health risks.

The Secretary of State is required to immediately notify the UN Secretary-General and the WHO leadership of the decision. The order specifies that implementation will be subject to applicable law and available appropriations and does not create enforceable rights or obligations for third parties.

For global health stakeholders and international partners, the decision marks a significant recalibration of US engagement with multilateral health governance at a time when pandemic preparedness, funding equity and institutional reform remain central issues on the global agenda.