The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States’ notification of withdrawal from the global health body, warning that the move could undermine both US and global health security.
In a statement , WHO acknowledged the United States’ long-standing role as a founding member and a key contributor to major global health milestones, including the eradication of smallpox and progress against diseases such as polio, HIV, malaria and tuberculosis.
“WHO therefore regrets the United States’ notification of withdrawal from WHO – a decision that makes both the United States and the world less safe,” the organization said.
WHO added that the notification raises legal and procedural issues that will be reviewed by the WHO Executive Board at its meeting starting February 2, and later by the World Health Assembly in May 2026.
The United States government has defended its decision by citing what it described as failures by WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic. US officials accused the agency of “obstructing the timely and accurate sharing of critical information,” compromising its independence, and pursuing what they termed a “politicized, bureaucratic agenda.”
In previous statements, the US said its withdrawal was necessary to protect national interests, arguing that WHO mishandled the early stages of the pandemic and failed to hold key actors accountable.
WHO rejected those claims, insisting it acted swiftly and transparently as the crisis unfolded.
“Throughout the pandemic, WHO acted quickly, shared all information it had rapidly and transparently with the world, and advised Member States on the basis of the best available evidence,” the organization said, noting it issued early alerts and guidance even before COVID-19 spread widely beyond China.
WHO emphasized that it does not impose mandates on countries, stressing that decisions on lockdowns, vaccines and public health measures remained the sovereign responsibility of governments.
Despite the withdrawal notice, WHO said it remains committed to working with all member states and expressed hope that the United States would eventually rejoin the organization.
“We hope that in the future, the United States will return to active participation in WHO,” the statement said.
