Executive Order Signed on Day 1 of Trump’s Second Term
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, beginning the process of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This was one of several executive actions taken after his swearing-in for a second term, addressing a range of issues including immigration, foreign policy, and climate change.
A Second Attempt at Withdrawal
This marks the second time in less than five years that President Trump has ordered the U.S. to withdraw from the WHO. The move follows his criticism of the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which became a global health crisis during his first term. Despite his initial threats to pull out in 2020, the withdrawal was not completed at that time.
Controversial Move Amid Warnings from Scientists
The decision to withdraw has sparked concerns from scientists and health experts who warn that the move could undo decades of progress in fighting infectious diseases like AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. Experts also fear that the U.S. exit from the WHO could weaken the global health system’s ability to combat future pandemics.
Trump’s Reasons for Withdrawal
A statement from the White House on Monday night explained that the withdrawal was due to the WHO’s “mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic” and its failure to implement necessary reforms. The statement also accused the WHO of being unduly influenced by political pressures from member states and demanding “unfairly onerous payments” from the U.S., which it claims were out of proportion to other countries’ contributions.
WHO Responds: Reconsider the Decision
In response to the announcement, the World Health Organization urged the U.S. to reconsider its decision, citing the long-standing collaboration that has “saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats.” The WHO also highlighted recent reforms it has undertaken, calling them the “largest set of reforms in its history.”
Potential Impact of U.S. Withdrawal
If the withdrawal proceeds, the U.S. would cut its funding to the WHO, as it is the organization’s largest donor. The executive order also directs federal agencies to cease collaboration with the WHO, which is involved in a wide range of global health initiatives.
