“The World Health Organization regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the organisation,” WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told reporters.
Trump has signed an executive order beginning the process of withdrawing America from the WHO, the second time in less than five years that the US has ordered to withdraw from the world body.
WHO said it is hopeful that the US will reconsider its decision on withdrawing from the organisation. “We hope the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe,” it added.
WHO comments on United States announcement of intent to withdraw
Geneva – The World Health Organization regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the Organization.
WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the… pic.twitter.com/rk9xtIRC4x
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) January 21, 2025
It was among dozens of executive actions he signed after being sworn in on January 20 for a second term.
The WHO came under intense criticism from Trump in 2020 for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which grew into a worldwide health crisis during the final year of his first term.
The global health body stands to lose hundreds of millions of dollars in funding following Trump’s order.
First Published: Jan 21, 2025 4:32 PM IST
