WHO Says US Exit Will Make Global Health Less Safe

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States’ notification of withdrawal, warning that the decision will make both the United States and the wider world less safe.

WHO noted that the United States, as a founding member, has played a significant role in many of the organization’s major achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and progress in combating polio, HIV, Ebola, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, antimicrobial resistance, and other public health threats.

The notification of withdrawal will be reviewed by the WHO Executive Board at its meeting beginning on 2 February and by the World Health Assembly at its annual session in May 2026.

Responding to claims by the United States that WHO compromised its independence and mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization said it has always engaged with all Member States in good faith and with full respect for national sovereignty. WHO rejected accusations that it obstructed information sharing or concealed failures during the pandemic.

WHO stated that while no institution responded perfectly to the unprecedented crisis, it acted rapidly and transparently, sharing available information and providing guidance based on the best available scientific evidence. The organization clarified that it never recommended mask mandates, vaccine mandates, or lockdowns, and supported governments in making their own policy decisions.

WHO recalled that it activated its emergency response mechanisms in late December 2019, alerted the global community early, and declared COVID-19 a public health emergency of international concern on 30 January 2020, when cases outside China were still limited.

The organization also rejected claims that it operates under political influence, emphasizing that it remains impartial and governed collectively by its 194 Member States. WHO highlighted ongoing reforms and strengthened preparedness measures introduced following independent reviews of the pandemic response.

WHO reaffirmed its commitment to working with all countries to address global health threats and expressed hope that the United States would rejoin the organization in the future, while continuing to pursue its mandate of achieving the highest attainable standard of health for all people.