Us Abandons Global Health Frontline Amid Ongoing Pandemic Crisis

US Withdrawal from WHO Sparks Global Health Concerns

President Trump’s administration has initiated the process of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), a decision that has drawn both controversy and criticism. The news comes at a time when global health experts are grappling with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the threat of emerging infectious diseases.

The WHO, which is widely regarded as a leading authority on public health issues, has been instrumental in coordinating international responses to pandemics and outbreaks. However, under Trump, the US contribution to the WHO was cut from $1.3 billion in 2020-21 to just $680 million. Critics argue that this decision is a serious blow to global health security.

Lawrence Gostin, a professor of public health law at Georgetown University Law Center, has described the move as “reckless” and “lawless.” He argues that the executive order announcing the withdrawal does not provide adequate notice or seek Congressional approval, as required by a 1948 joint resolution. Sten Vermund, chief medical officer of the Global Virus Network, warns that a US withdrawal from WHO will leave the country “more alone, more vulnerable, and more fragile in the world.”

The WHO plays a crucial role in monitoring emerging diseases, such as bird flu, and coordinating international responses. Germany has quadrupled its contributions to the WHO in response to Trump’s move, while the Danish government has agreed to double its donations. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Bank, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, are also expected to take a strong stance against the US withdrawal.

Global health experts are urging caution and calling for a coordinated international response as the situation continues to unfold. With the pandemic still raging and new diseases emerging, the need for cooperation and collective action has never been more pressing. The WHO’s role in protecting global health is critical, and its future hangs in the balance.