The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the organisation.
In a statement on 24 January 2026, WHO said the United States, as a founding member, has played a major role in many of its achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and progress against public health threats such as polio, HIV, Ebola, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, and antimicrobial resistance.
WHO said the U.S. withdrawal makes both the country and the world less safe. It said the matter will be discussed by the WHO Executive Board at its meeting starting 2 February and by the World Health Assembly at its annual meeting in May 2026.
The U.S. government has accused the WHO of “trashing and tarnishing” its reputation, undermining its independence, and failing during the COVID‑19 pandemic, including allegedly withholding information.
WHO denied these claims, saying it acted quickly and transparently, sharing all available information and advising countries based on the best scientific evidence.
The U.S. also accused the WHO of following a “politicised, bureaucratic agenda” favouring countries hostile to American interests. WHO rejected this, saying it is an impartial UN agency that serves all member states with respect for their sovereignty.
WHO added that it hopes the United States will return to active participation in the future.
The United States officially left the WHO on 22 January 2026, completing a process started by President Donald Trump in January 2025.
Trump had signed an executive order on 20 January 2025 announcing the U.S. intention to leave, citing the WHO’s handling of COVID‑19 and other health crises.
The withdrawal formally took effect after the required one‑year notice period, confirmed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State Department.
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