The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the decision by the United States to withdraw from the global health body would make both America and the rest of the world less safe, stressing that international cooperation is critical to addressing global health threats.
In a statement expressing regret over the notification submitted by the US government, WHO rejected claims that it failed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation said it remains committed to working with all countries to achieve the highest attainable standard of health as a fundamental human right and expressed hope that the United States would reconsider its decision in the future.
WHO noted that the United States is a founding member and has played a pivotal role in major public health achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and progress in combating polio, HIV, Ebola, malaria, tuberculosis and other infectious diseases. The organisation said the withdrawal raises governance issues that will be examined by the WHO Executive Board in February and by the World Health Assembly in May 2026.
Responding to allegations from the US government that it acted improperly or compromised its independence, WHO said it has always engaged with the United States in good faith and with respect for its sovereignty. It acknowledged that no institution managed every aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic perfectly but maintained that it acted swiftly and transparently, sharing information and guidance based on the best available evidence.
WHO clarified that it did not mandate lockdowns, vaccines or mask use, noting that such decisions were taken by individual governments. The organisation said reviews of the pandemic have led to reforms aimed at strengthening global preparedness and response, reaffirming its impartiality and commitment to safeguarding global health.
