US Exit From WHO Takes Effect: 22 January 2026
Why in the news
The United States completed its exit from the World Health Organization on 22 January 2026, after criticism of WHO’s COVID-19 handling.
Background
- President Donald J. Trump began the exit with Executive Order 14155 on 20 January 2025.
- A one-year notice is required under WHO rules; it ran out in January 2026.
| WHO profile | Detail |
|---|---|
| Established | 7 April 1948 (World Health Day) |
| Headquarters | Geneva |
| Members | 194 |
India and WHO
- India is a founding member; WHO helps on TB elimination, immunisation (UIP) and surveillance (IDSP).