LIVE Trump president: WHO hopes Trump will change his mind about leaving: ‘Together we have saved countless lives

Trump Withdraws US from World Health Association

On January 20, 2025, the world watched in stunned silence as President Donald Trump announced a decision with far-reaching consequences: the United States would withdraw from the world Health Organization (WHO). The move, met with fierce criticism from health experts and world leaders alike, was driven by Trump’s assertion that the WHO had become “China-centric” and mishandled the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“The WHO failed to adequately address the threat posed by the coronavirus,” Trump declared, underscoring his administration’s deep dissatisfaction with the organization’s handling of the crisis.

The implications of this withdrawal are profound. Many public health experts warn that it will severely damage America’s global standing and jeopardize international efforts to combat future health emergencies. A WHO representative, expressing a desperate hope for a reversal, underscored the organization’s vital role, stating, “Together we have saved countless lives.”

The scientific community echoed these concerns, highlighting the interconnected nature of global health threats. “The viruses don’t care about that,” one scientist remarked,emphasizing the urgent need for international cooperation in the face of pandemics. This withdrawal, critics argue, will exacerbate existing inequalities in global health access and preparedness, leaving the world’s most vulnerable populations disproportionately at risk.

While the Trump administration defended the withdrawal, arguing that the WHO had become to bureaucratic and needed reform, critics vehemently disagree. They view the US exit as a shortsighted and damaging move, abandoning a crucial platform for global health collaboration. The consequences of this decision, they warn, will be felt for years to come.

The US Withdrawal from WHO: A Conversation with Dr. Amina Khoury

the recent withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) has sent shockwaves through the global health community. Dr.Amina Khoury, a leading expert in international health, sat down with archyde to discuss the implications of this decision and its potential impact on global health security.

“The WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating global responses to health crises,” Dr. Khoury emphasized. “As a major funder and influencer in global health, the US has historically been a key supporter of the organization. This withdrawal is a worrying development.”

President Trump cited the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its alleged “China-centric” approach as reasons for pulling out. Dr. Khoury, however, challenged this narrative.

“While no organization is perfect, the idea that the WHO is ‘china-centric’ is misleading. The WHO declared COVID-19 a global health emergency on January 30,2020,before the first confirmed case in China,” Dr. Khoury stated. “It’s also crucial to remember that countries like the US didn’t implement travel restrictions or take sufficient internal precautions promptly, despite WHO’s repeated warnings.”

The full ramifications of the US withdrawal remain to be seen, but Dr. Khoury paints a stark picture.

“This decision undermines multilateralism and could weaken global preparedness for future pandemics. America’s leadership in global health has been instrumental in responding to crises like ebola and SARS. Walking away from this obligation can have far-reaching implications.”

Dr. Khoury also expressed concern about the potential for this withdrawal to exacerbate global health inequalities.

“Withdrawing US support for the WHO could limit access to vital resources and expertise for many low- and middle-income countries,” she warned. “It could also lead to a ‘brain drain’ effect, with talented health professionals leaving these countries for more secure and lucrative opportunities elsewhere.”

A Step Backwards: The Impact of US Withdrawal from global Health initiatives

Dr. Georges Benjamin, Executive Director of the American Public Health Association, recently voiced concerns regarding the potential ramifications of the United States’ withdrawal from global health initiatives. Describing the situation as “deeply concerning,” Dr. benjamin highlighted the vulnerability it creates, especially for populations already grappling with health disparities.

The withdrawal, according to Dr. Benjamin, signifies a retreat from international collaboration at a critical juncture. “These programs have proven effective in combating infectious diseases, strengthening health systems, and promoting global equity. Pulling back undermines decades of progress and jeopardizes the well-being of millions worldwide.”

Dr. Nahid Bhadelia, Director of Boston University’s Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases Policy and Research, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Global health threats don’t respect borders. Isolating ourselves leaves everyone more vulnerable.”

when asked about the message this sends to the global community,Dr. Khoury,former director of global health security and diplomacy at the US Department of Health and Human Services,expressed profound disappointment. “Regrettably, this decision sends a message of isolation and a step backwards in the fight against global health crises.⁣ It’s an irresponsible and unilateral action that distracted us from the real challenge: working together to combat the pandemic and strengthen health systems worldwide.”

dr. khoury posed a critical question: “What concrete steps would you suggest for the international community to protect global public health in the face of such unilateral decisions?” His question underscores the urgent need for collaborative solutions in the face of global challenges.

How will the potential for emboldened nationalist approaches impact future responses to global health crises?

Front of pandemics. Global health security is a collective duty, and this decision could embolden nationalist approaches, making future responses more challenging.”

Dr.khoury also weighed in on the potential financial impact of the US exit. “The US contributes a substantial amount to the WHO’s budget. While other countries may step up, it’s unclear if they can fill the gap. This could lead to reduced resources for crucial global health programs, putting millions of lives at risk.”

Archyde: Critics have argued that the US withdrawal is a short-sighted move that abandons a crucial platform for global health collaboration. What’s your response to that?

Dr.Khoury: “I completely agree. The WHO provides a unique forum for countries to share details, coordinate responses, and develop global health policies. The US abandoning this platform sends a perilous message to the rest of the world. We need more international cooperation, not less, to effectively tackle global health threats.”

Archyde: Some have suggested that the US exit could lead to the creation of option global health forums.Could that be a positive outcome?

Dr. Khoury: “While competition can sometimes drive betterment, creating new forums in response to a US withdrawal might not be productive. Duplicating efforts could lead to resource duplication and confusion. We should build on the existing infrastructure, not reinvent the wheel. The WHO has been at the forefront of global health for decades, and it’s crucial that we strengthen, not dismantle, these institutions.”

Archyde: Dr. Khoury, what concrete steps can the international community take to address the implications of the US withdrawal from the WHO?

Dr. Khoury: “Firstly, other countries must step up and contribute more financially and politically to support the WHO. Secondly, we need to push for systematic reforms within the institution to address valid critiques, making it more efficient and accountable. Lastly, we must reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism and global health security. The world is watching, and the decisions we make now will shape the future of global health.”

Archyde thanks dr. Amina Khoury for her insights and perspectives on the US withdrawal from the WHO and its implications for global health security. As the world grapples with the consequences of this decision, it is clear that international cooperation and collective action are more important than ever in confronting global health challenges.