Story perspectives

WHO Regrets U.S. Withdrawal, Calls It Global Safety Risk

1/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed regret over the United States' withdrawal, stating it compromises global safety.
The U.S. officially exited the WHO on January 22, 2026, following an executive order from President Trump.
WHO highlighted the U.S.'s significant contributions to global health, including smallpox eradication.
The organization rejected U.S. claims of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting its actions were transparent.
WHO plans to discuss the implications of the withdrawal at its Executive Board meeting on February 2 and the World Health Assembly in May 2026.

History

Historical Context

Established on April 7, 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) has significantly advanced global health, notably eradicating smallpox by 1980. However, the U.S. withdrawal in January 2026, the first by a member state, echoes past tensions like the 1973 exit from the Paris Peace Accords, raising concerns about the future of international health cooperation and governance.

1 of 2

Story summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed regret over the United States' withdrawal, stating it compromises global safety.
The U.S. officially exited the WHO on January 22, 2026, following an executive order from President Trump.
WHO highlighted the U.S.'s significant contributions to global health, including smallpox eradication.
The organization rejected U.S. claims of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting its actions were transparent.
WHO plans to discuss the implications of the withdrawal at its Executive Board meeting on February 2 and the World Health Assembly in May 2026.

1 / 2