Trump Signs Executive Order to Withdraw from World Health Organization
SUMMARY
On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing concerns over financial inequities and the organization's ties to China. Trump highlighted that the U.S. contributed $500 million annually compared to China's $39 million, deeming this unfair. He criticized the WHO for mismanaging the COVID-19 pandemic, alleging it allowed China to conceal the virus's early spread, and labeled the organization as "China-centric." Trump originally initiated the withdrawal in 2020, redirecting U.S. funding to alternative global health initiatives, but President Biden rejoined the WHO upon taking office, reinstating the $500 million contribution. Trump also criticized the WHO for inefficiency, lack of accountability, and insufficient reforms, advocating for a transparent and effective global health body. This marks his continued push for prioritizing U.S. interests in international relations.
