Why Leaving the WHO is a Shortsighted Move for the U.S.


The decision to pull the United States out of the World Health Organization (WHO) is a dangerously shortsighted move. While the stated reason is that China doesn’t contribute enough compared to the U.S., this ignores the vital role the WHO plays in global health security—something that directly benefits Americans.

The WHO is instrumental in worldwide monitoring and early detection of emerging threats like COVID-19, H5N1, and other novel viruses. It also plays a critical role in coordinating vaccine distribution, ensuring that life-saving treatments reach vulnerable populations around the globe. Without this infrastructure, the U.S. would be left vulnerable to delayed responses to new pandemics and outbreaks.

If the U.S. were to withdraw completely, it would need to create its own system to replace these essential functions. This would take years to build and cost far more than what the U.S. currently contributes to the WHO. Ironically, this decision comes from an administration claiming it wants to cut costs—yet it risks creating a more expensive and less effective alternative.

Global health crises don’t respect borders. By stepping away from the WHO, the U.S. weakens its ability to protect its own citizens and undermines international efforts to safeguard public health. In today’s interconnected world, collaboration isn’t optional—it’s essential.

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