The World Health Organization (WHO) has voiced its concern over the recent decision by the United States to withdraw from the international health body.
The move, enacted through an executive order by the President of the United States, Donald Trump, shortly after his inauguration on January 20, was attributed to what he described as WHO’s failure to act independently of “inappropriate political influence” from its member states. “World Health ripped us off; everybody rips off the United States. It’s not going to happen anymore,” Trump said.
In a statement released on Tuesday, WHO acknowledged the importance of the United States’ membership as a founding member state and highlighted its critical role in the World Health Assembly and Executive Board. “For over seven decades, WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected America and all people from health threats,” the statement noted.
The statement further emphasized the significant achievements resulting from the partnership between WHO and the United States, including the eradication of smallpox and progress toward the extinction of polio. It also underscored the mutual benefits derived from the collaboration. “With the participation of the United States and other Member States, WHO has over the past seven years implemented the largest set of reforms in its history, to transform our accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact in our countries. This work continues,” the statement added.
The official statement from the World Health Organization concluded by urging the United States to reconsider its withdrawal and expressed its readiness to engage in discussions aimed at maintaining the partnership.
See full statement below:
