US Officially Exits WHO, Refuses to Pay $260 Million Dues

The United States officially withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday, completing a process initiated by former President Donald Trump. The move fulfills Trump’s long-standing goal of distancing the US from the global health body.

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirmed that the withdrawal process has been completed, and the country will not pay the WHO’s outstanding dues, currently estimated at around $260 million (approximately ₹2,380 crore). Under US law, a one-year notice is required before leaving an international organization, along with settlement of any outstanding fees. Legal experts, however, suggest that enforcing payment is unlikely, leaving the WHO with limited options.

US Government Funding Halted

HHS announced that all US government funding to WHO has ceased, and American staff and contractors have been recalled. The US has also ended formal participation in WHO’s sponsor committees, leadership bodies, governance structures, and technical working groups. A senior health official stated, “We have no plans to participate even as an observer, nor do we intend to rejoin the organization.”

Global Health Implications

Experts have warned that the US exit could negatively impact public health worldwide. Dr. Lawrence Gostin, a global health law expert at Georgetown University, told CNN, “Legally, the US cannot officially leave WHO until it settles its outstanding financial obligations. However, WHO lacks the power to compel payment.”

UN Relations and International Repercussions

The US flag was removed from WHO headquarters in Geneva on Thursday. Reports indicate that the US has recently sought to withdraw from other United Nations organizations, prompting concerns that Trump’s newly established Board of Peace could weaken the UN’s global influence.

Door Left Open for Collaboration

Despite the withdrawal, HHS emphasized that the US remains open to collaboration with WHO. When asked about participation in next year’s meeting to determine the global flu vaccine composition, officials said discussions are ongoing. A senior official noted that despite being the largest funder of WHO, the US has historically gained little influence, as no American has ever served as WHO Director-General.