US Exit From WHO Begins on Thursday as Washington formally leaves the World Health Organisation. President Donald Trump issued the withdrawal notice on the first day of his 2025 term. US law requires a one-year notice and full payment of outstanding dues. However, the United States still owes about 260 million dollars to the agency.
WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged the US to reconsider. He said the move harms both American and global health systems. He warned that cooperation remains vital for tackling future health threats.
Meanwhile, the WHO confirmed that the US has not cleared fees for 2024 and 2025. Member states will discuss the exit at the executive board meeting in February. The US State Department has not clarified its next steps.
Legal experts said the withdrawal violates US law. However, they expect limited enforcement. Bill Gates also said a quick return appears unlikely. He stressed the importance of the WHO for global health stability.
The exit has created financial strain for the WHO. The agency has cut leadership roles and reduced operations. It plans to cut nearly a quarter of its workforce this year. Experts warned that weakened coordination could increase global health risks.
