US Withdraws from WHO, Funding and Health at Risk

Why in the news?

President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the US from the WHO, citing mismanagement of COVID-19, political influences, and unfair contributions, causing significant funding gaps and disrupting global health initiatives, including in India.

US Withdraws from WHO, Funding and Health at Risk

Why the US Withdrew from WHO?

  • President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Cited reasons: mismanagement of COVID-19, lack of reforms, political influences, and “unfair payments” compared to other countries like China.

Implications of US Withdrawal

  • Funding Gap:
    • The US, being the largest contributor to the WHO, provided 22% of assessed funds and 13% of voluntary contributions.
    • Withdrawal creates a significant budget shortfall, affecting global health programs, including those in India.
  • Impact on Programs and Expertise:
    • WHO initiatives like vaccine coverage and disease eradication face setbacks due to reduced funding.
    • Loss of collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) impacts global disease surveillance.
  • Operational Adjustments:
    • The US will pause funding transfers, recall personnel, and seek alternative partners for health initiatives.
    • Negotiations for the pandemic treaty, essential for future preparedness, will cease for the US.

India’s Concerns

  • Programs targeting malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, and other diseases may face disruptions.
  • Loss of American experts in WHO committees could delay global health guidelines.
  • India’s immunization programs might need adjustment due to reduced WHO support.

This withdrawal highlights the need for diversified funding and strengthened global collaboration to ensure WHO’s effectiveness.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times