The World Health Organization Begins Cost-Cutting Measures as US Withdrawal Looms
As the United States prepares to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) next year, the global health agency has started implementing cost-cutting measures to mitigate the financial impact of the loss. The move comes after a formal notice was sent by the US to the UN, confirming its intention to leave the WHO on January 22, 2026.
The US withdrawal from the WHO is not unexpected, as it was announced by President Trump in his first day in office through an executive order. The decision cited concerns over the agency’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, dues payments, and alleged protection of China. However, global health leaders and experts have criticized the move, warning that it will make the world less safe and weaken America’s position.
WHO Regrets US Withdrawal Announcement
In a statement on Tuesday, the WHO expressed its regret over the US withdrawal announcement and urged the country to reconsider its decision. The agency highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing global health threats and emphasized the benefits of membership in the WHO. "For over seven decades, WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats," the statement reads.
The WHO’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, acknowledged the financial implications of the US withdrawal and instructed staff to implement cost-cutting measures. In a memo sent to staff on January 23, Tedros wrote, "This announcement has made our financial situation more acute." The agency is expected to experience a significant loss in funding due to the US withdrawal, as American contributions account for about 18% of its budget.
Cost-Cutting Measures Implemented
To mitigate the impact of the US withdrawal, the WHO has announced several cost-cutting measures. These include halting recruitment, reducing travel expenditures, making all meetings virtual, limiting IT equipment updates, and suspending office refurbishment. Tedros emphasized that more measures would be announced in due course and that the agency would do everything possible to protect and support staff.
Global Health Experts Criticize US Withdrawal
The pending withdrawal of the US from the WHO has been met with criticism from global health leaders and experts. Kenneth Bernard, a visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University who served as a top biodefense official during the George W. Bush administration, described the decision as "just stupid." He warned that the withdrawal would create a gap in global health leadership that would be filled by China, which is not in America’s best interests.
The Impact of US Withdrawal on Global Health
The withdrawal of the US from the WHO has significant implications for global health. The agency plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of people worldwide by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and detecting, preventing, and responding to health emergencies.
By leaving the WHO, the US will not only be sacrificing its influence on global health decisions but also undermining its own national security. As Bernard noted, "Withdrawing from the WHO leaves a gap in global health leadership that will be filled by China." This raises concerns about the potential for Chinese dominance in global health decision-making and the implications for American interests.
Conclusion
The US withdrawal from the World Health Organization has significant implications for global health and international cooperation. The agency’s cost-cutting measures are a response to the financial impact of the loss, but the long-term consequences of this decision remain uncertain. As the world prepares for the formal withdrawal of the US on January 22, 2026, it is essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of this decision.