Story perspectives

U.S. Plans WHO Exit: $278 Million Dues Unpaid

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The United States will exit the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026, after an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The move follows unpaid WHO dues totaling $278 million for 2024–2025.
Experts warn the departure could weaken global health systems and responses to threats.
The U.S. State Department will not participate in WHO events beyond withdrawal efforts.
The WHO executive board will discuss the implications in February.

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Story summary

The United States will exit the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026, after an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The move follows unpaid WHO dues totaling $278 million for 2024–2025.
Experts warn the departure could weaken global health systems and responses to threats.
The U.S. State Department will not participate in WHO events beyond withdrawal efforts.
The WHO executive board will discuss the implications in February.