The United States Withdrawal From the World Health Organization: Implications and Challenges Publisher Pubmed



V Yazdifeyzabad VAHID ; Aa Haghdoost Aliakbar AKBAR ; Mj Mckee Martin J ; A Takian AMIRHOSSEIN ; Eh Bradley Elizabeth H ; Rf Brugha Ruairi F ; N Eyal NIR ; S Eybpoosh SANA ; Lo Gostin Lawrence O ; N Ikegami NAOKI
Source: International Journal of Health Policy and Management Published:2025

Abstract

President Trump’s 2025 decision to remove the United States (US) from the World Health Organization (WHO), echoing his initial 2020 move, raises existential questions about the future of global health governance. This editorial explores the immediate and long-term potential impacts of the withdrawal, noting that it poses a significant threat to the WHO financing. This, in turn, will have adverse consequences for future pandemic preparedness, health inequities, and cross-border collaboration. We also explore the potential role of private philanthropies in bridging the funding gap, against the risk of shifting health priorities away from local needs. For the US, withdrawal means diminished influence on global health policies and weaker alignment with new international regulations. Moving forward, structural reforms within the WHO, equitable contributions from global powers, and renewed US involvement are essential to maintain strong health systems worldwide. Ultimately, a collaborative approach is necessary to uphold collective preparedness against emerging health crises. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.