The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday said it regrets the announcement of the United States — its largest donor — that it intends to withdraw from the United Nations agency.
“WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans, by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and detecting, preventing, and responding to health emergencies, including disease outbreaks, often in dangerous places where others cannot go,” WHO said in a statement.
It cited how the US was one of its founding members in 1948 and has since participated in shaping and governing its work, “including through its active participation in the World Health Assembly and Executive Board.”
“For over seven decades, WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats. Together, we ended smallpox, and together we have brought polio to the brink of eradication,” WHO said.
“American institutions have contributed to and benefited from membership in WHO. With the participation of the United States and other Member States, WHO has over the past 7 years implemented the largest set of reforms in its history, to transform our accountability, cost-effectiveness, and impact in countries. This work continues,” it added.
Only hours after taking power, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the country to withdraw from WHO. It can be recalled that Trump criticized in multiple instances the agency’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We hope the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe,” WHO concluded.
