US Withdrawal from WHO: Funding Impact and Reasons
Why in the news
One of Donald Trump’s first executive orders on returning to office took the US out of the World Health Organization, blaming China bias and COVID-19 handling.
Key facts
- US share of WHO funding dipped to 8.9% in 2020-21 and was $1.2 billion in 2022-23.
- The exit ends future US funding and aid, leaving a large gap; China gives only 3%.
- US opinion: 40% said in 2024 that membership benefits the country little or not at all (34% in 2021); 80% of Democrats but just 38% of Republicans see a benefit.
| WHO area | US share of spending |
|---|---|
| Health services worldwide | 26% |
| Health emergency response | 21% |
| Polio eradication | 20% |
| Epidemic and pandemic prevention | 10% |
Impact and concerns
- Research collaboration and public health coordination may weaken.
- Germany and the UK lead European giving, yet no country supplies above 5% of WHO financing.
- WHO may have to cut activities or raise private funds.
Exam angle
- Announced on 20 January 2025.
- Top non-state donor in 2024-25: Gates Foundation.