The World Health Organization has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to officially withdraw from the UN health agency—calling it a move that could have far-reaching consequences for global health.
In a statement, the WHO said it hopes Washington will one day return to active participation.
The US formally exited the organization on Thursday, following a year of warnings from global health leaders that such a decision could harm not only Americans, but public health efforts worldwide.
The withdrawal comes after repeated criticism from President Donald Trump’s administration, particularly over how the WHO handled the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trump has accused the agency of failing to act independently, claiming it was influenced by the political interests of member states. He also argued that the United States was required to make “unfairly onerous payments,” saying its financial contributions were disproportionate compared to those of other countries, including China.
Despite the criticism, the WHO stood firm.
The organization said it remains confident in its response to what it described as an “unprecedented global health crisis.”
According to the WHO, the systems it developed and managed before, during, and after the pandemic’s emergency phase continue to operate around the clock—helping keep all countries safe, including the United States.
Behind the statement is a clear message:
Global health, the WHO stressed, works best when nations work together.
And while the US has stepped away for now, the door—according to the world’s leading health body—remains open.
