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US Withdrawal Notification: WHO Statement on Afghanistan
- The United States formally notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of its withdrawal on January 20, 2021, under the Trump administration, but rejoined under the Biden administration on...
- The United States has been a founding member of the WHO and has historically been a major contributor to its successes, including the eradication of smallpox and advancements...
- played a crucial role in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative,providing both funding and technical expertise.
United States Withdrawal from the World Health Organization
Table of Contents
The United States formally notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of its withdrawal on January 20, 2021, under the Trump administration, but rejoined under the Biden administration on February 1, 2021. As of January 25, 2026, the United States remains a member of the WHO.
Ancient U.S. Contributions to the WHO
The United States has been a founding member of the WHO and has historically been a major contributor to its successes, including the eradication of smallpox and advancements in combating diseases like polio, HIV, Ebola, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, and antimicrobial resistance.
For example,the U.S. played a crucial role in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative,providing both funding and technical expertise.
Initial Withdrawal Notification and WHO Response
The WHO received notification of the U.S. withdrawal on July 7, 2020, and expressed regret, stating the decision would make both the U.S. and the world less safe.
The WHO addressed claims made by the U.S.government regarding alleged misconduct, asserting that the accusations were inaccurate. The WHO stated, “As we do with every Member State, we have always valued the United States’ engagement and partnership.”
The withdrawal notification was scheduled to be considered by the WHO Executive Board in February 2021 and the World Health Assembly in May 2021. Documentation regarding the withdrawal process is available on the WHO website.
Rejoining the WHO
On January 20, 2021, President Biden issued an executive order halting the withdrawal process.
The United States officially rejoined the WHO on February 1, 2021, committing to fulfilling its assessed financial obligations and working with the organization on global health issues. The U.S.Department of State announced the reinstatement of U.S. membership, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing health challenges.
Current status (January 25, 2026)
As of January 25, 2026, the United States remains an active member of the World Health Organization, continuing to contribute financially and participate in its programs. the U.S. continues to work with the WHO on initiatives such as pandemic preparedness and response, global health security, and strengthening health systems worldwide.