Trump's WHO exit: A gamble with global health security
Professor Robert Ostergard from the University of Nevada warns that President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) poses a significant risk for the US and other nations. In an interview with the Polish Press Agency, he suggests that this move could weaken and delay the global response to future pandemics.
President Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the WHO has sparked widespread criticism. Experts caution that this could negatively affect the US and the wider world. Professor Robert Ostergard from the University of Nevada highlights the possibility that this decision might impede global efforts to tackle future health crises.
Trump: "WHO is ripping us off"
Trump defended his decision to leave the WHO on financial grounds. "The World Health Organization is ripping us off," he declared.
The United States is the largest contributor to the WHO, having donated over $1.2 billion to the organisation's budget during 2022-2023. In comparison, Germany contributed $856 million, while China provided only $156 million. Nonetheless, Professor Ostergard stresses the importance of investing in WHO, particularly for developing countries that often serve as sources of health crises.
Indeed, the United States pays more, but this is because less wealthy countries cannot contribute as much. What is most crucial is that maintaining WHO membership is important, especially for developing nations, given that many global health crises are likely to originate there, as demonstrated by Ebola, COVID-19, and bird flu, said the expert, quoted by the Polish Press Agency.
Experts warn about the threat to public health
Experts like Kavelle Christie warn that the US withdrawal from WHO could lead to isolation in essential areas such as vaccine distribution and early disease detection.
Christie stresses that "public health transcends borders," reminding us of the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. She warns about the vast number of unknown viruses that could potentially trigger another pandemic.
Impact on international cooperation
The US decision to withdraw from the WHO could disrupt efforts to combat AIDS and advance the development of vaccines and medicines. Christie explains that the exchange of data and adherence to international standards, which the WHO plays a key role in facilitating, are crucial for pharmaceutical regulation. Without these collaborations, the US may face delays in innovation and a decline in its global credibility.
As a founding member of the WHO, the United States has been integral to the organization since its establishment in 1948. With 194 member countries, the WHO relies heavily on such contributions, and Trump's decision could profoundly impact global public health. Highlighting the inevitability of future pandemics, Professor Ostergard stresses that the issue is not whether they will occur but when.
Trump's decision (the order was signed mere hours after his inauguration) surprised no one. The US president had long criticised the WHO, and his administration began the process of leaving the organisation five years ago. It was Joe Biden who, upon assuming office, reversed Trump's decision.
