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Trump Withdraws U.S. From World Health Organization in Second Term

The decision, criticized by public health experts, raises concerns about global health security and America's role in international disease response.

  • President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged political bias.
  • The U.S. contributes around 20% of WHO's budget, and its withdrawal could significantly weaken global health programs, including vaccination efforts and disease outbreak responses.
  • Experts warn that leaving the WHO will limit U.S. access to critical global health data, such as pathogen samples and surveillance information, potentially increasing vulnerability to emerging health threats.
  • The legality of the withdrawal is being questioned, as a 1948 Congressional resolution requires a one-year notice and legislative approval, which Trump bypassed in his executive order.
  • Critics argue that the move undermines U.S. influence in global health diplomacy, risks reversing progress on diseases like polio and HIV, and could allow rival nations like China to fill the leadership void.
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