On his first day back in office, President Trump reiterated his stance on the United States’ relationship with the World Health Organization (WHO) through an executive order to withdraw the country from the organization. This decision commences a one-year process of withdrawal in accordance with a 1948 Joint Resolution of Congress, a requirement that demands a twelve-month notice period, as explained in previous coverage.
President Trump first announced intentions to exit the WHO in July 2020. However, these plans were halted as the withdrawal was not finalized before he exited office. The Trump administration previously criticized the WHO for its decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that the organization was unduly influenced by China while pressing the issue of financial disparities in member contributions. President Trump has pointed out that “China has total control over the World Health Organization despite only paying $40 million per year,” whereas the United States payment is approximately $450 million annually.
After President Biden assumed office in January 2021, the withdrawal notice was rescinded on his first day, symbolizing a renewed commitment towards international collaboration amidst the global health crisis. Trump’s recent executive order, however, signals a return to his previously established policy objectives concerning the WHO.
The current move aligns with Trump’s earlier criticism and reasoning that led to the initial withdrawal efforts, emphasizing concerns over the WHO’s alleged mismanagement and perceived partiality towards China. To delve further into the sequence of events, review Trump’s previous comments and the initial withdrawal notification from 2020 here.