The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the agency, warning that the move makes both the US and the world less safe.
The statement came as the WHO outlined its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing global health work.
As a founding member, the United States has contributed to WHO’s major achievements, including the eradication of smallpox and progress against diseases such as polio, HIV, Ebola, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases. WHO officials said the US notification of withdrawal will be reviewed by the Executive Board in February and by the World Health Assembly in May 2026.
Responding to US claims that WHO “trashed and tarnished” its reputation and compromised its independence, the agency said the opposite is true.
WHO emphasised that it has always engaged with the US in good faith and with full respect for its sovereignty.
The United States cited alleged failures during the Covid-19 pandemic, including delays in sharing information and concealing mistakes.
WHO rejected these claims, noting that it acted quickly from the first reports of a pneumonia cluster in Wuhan on 31 December 2019. By 11 January 2020, WHO had alerted the world, convened global experts, and published guidance for countries. The Director-General declared Covid-19 a public health emergency of international concern on 30 January 2020, when fewer than 100 cases were reported outside China.
Throughout the pandemic, WHO advised governments on mask use, vaccines and physical distancing, but did not mandate lockdowns or enforce measures.
The agency also highlighted its continuous efforts to strengthen pandemic preparedness and response, including systems that operate 24/7 to support countries worldwide, including the United States.
WHO dismissed claims that it pursued a politicised agenda hostile to American interests, stressing that it operates impartially under the United Nations framework and serves all 194 member states without fear or favour.
The agency also reaffirmed ongoing initiatives such as the WHO Pandemic Agreement, adopted last year, which aims to improve global preparedness for future pandemics.
Negotiations continue on the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing system, designed to ensure rapid detection of pathogens and equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.
WHO concluded by expressing hope that the United States will return to active participation, while reaffirming its commitment to achieving the highest attainable standard of health as a fundamental right for all people.
