Summary
The United States officially left the World Health Organization (WHO), following an executive order by President Donald Trump. This decision requires a one-year notice and results in a financial penalty of $260 million, which the U.S. has not paid. The departure will significantly impact WHO’s operations, including staff cuts, and limit the U.S.'s ability to access global health data.
Key Facts
- President Donald Trump signed an order for the U.S. to leave the WHO.
- The departure process required a one-year notice and a $260 million fee for unpaid dues.
- The WHO needs to reduce its staff by up to 25% due to the loss of U.S. funding.
- The U.S. will no longer receive health data and support from the WHO.
- The U.S. has been the largest financial supporter of the WHO, contributing about 18% of its funding.
- The WHO's Director-General expressed concern that the U.S. exit is detrimental to both the U.S. and global health efforts.
- Member states will discuss the implications of the U.S. leaving in an upcoming meeting.
