US Exit from WHO

GS 2 – INTERNATIONAL RELATION

Context: The United States, under the leadership of then-President Donald Trump, issued an executive order to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing inefficiencies in handling the COVID-19 crisis and the need for structural reforms.

About WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized United Nations (UN) agency tasked with overseeing global public health. Established on April 7, 1948, this date is now observed annually as World Health Day.

• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• World Health Report (WHR): An annual publication by WHO highlighting key global health issues.
• Membership: If the US withdrawal is finalized, WHO will have 193 members, including India. Currently, all UN member states except Liechtenstein (192 countries), along with Cook Islands and Niue, are part of WHO.
• Significance: WHO was the first UN specialized agency to achieve universal membership.

Objectives and Functions of WHO

• Promote universal health coverage globally.
• Focus on disease prevention, control, and eradication, along with promoting health equity.
• Provide leadership in public health, establish global health standards, and offer technical and policy support to member nations.
• Collaborate with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, governments, NGOs, and the private sector.
• Enhance global preparedness and response mechanisms for health emergencies.
• Develop health guidelines, research, and policies.
• Monitor emerging health threats and coordinate international responses.

Challenges in Global Health Governance

• Funding Volatility: WHO depends significantly on voluntary contributions, which fluctuate.
• Limited Representation of Developing Nations: Global South’s health priorities often receive inadequate attention and resources.
• Dependence on Wealthy Nations: WHO’s initiatives are heavily influenced by Western donors.
• Need for Institutional Reforms: Addressing inefficiencies, improving transparency, and decentralizing decision-making remain critical.

Reasons Behind US Withdrawal

1. COVID-19 Response Issues: Alleged delays and failure to hold China accountable.
2. Political Bias Allegations: Perceived favoritism towards certain countries.
3. Financial Considerations: The US contributed around $1.3 billion in voluntary funding (2022-2023), far exceeding other nations.
4. Bureaucratic Challenges: Concerns over slow decision-making and lack of reforms.

Impact of the US Exit

On WHO

• Funding Issues: The US provides around 20% of WHO’s budget, which may affect global health programs.
• Program Disruptions: Key programs like immunization, polio eradication, and pandemic preparedness could be impacted.
• Loss of Expertise: US agencies like the CDC have been vital to WHO’s efforts.
• Slower Reforms: WHO may face challenges in making reforms due to reduced influence.

On Global Health

• Financial Strain: Developing countries relying on WHO funds might struggle.
• Shifting Power: Countries like China and emerging economies may increase their influence.
• Fragmentation Risk: New health alliances and independent funding may develop.

On the US

• Loss of Health Data: The US could lose access to global health updates and outbreak information.
• Vaccine Development Delays: Difficulties in obtaining virus samples for research.
• Reduced Influence: The US would have less impact on global health policies.

Opportunities for the Global South

• Leadership Role: Countries like India, Brazil, and South Africa could take a stronger leadership role.
• Alternative Funding: Groups like BRICS could support WHO initiatives.
• Building Expertise: Strengthening local health capabilities to reduce reliance on the West.
• Decentralized WHO: Moving key WHO offices to Asia or Africa to improve regional cooperation.

Way Forward

• Diversifying Funding: Encouraging more countries to contribute to WHO’s budget.
• Boosting WHO’s Credibility: Improving transparency and accountability.
• Regional Cooperation: Developing alternate health funding and support systems.
• Possible US Re-engagement: Future US administrations may decide to rejoin WHO.