The US Is Withdrawing From Global Health at a Dangerous Time

As the world grapples with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the looming threat of future health crises, the United States' decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) is a concerning development. The WHO plays a crucial role in global health security, and the U.S.'s withdrawal could have significant implications for both domestic and international health efforts.

The WHO is responsible for detecting, monitoring, and responding to emerging health threats, pandemics, and diseases of importance. It gathers and evaluates data and information from around the world to understand the status of health globally and detect emerging problems. The organization sets standards and develops guidelines to help people around the world deal with various health threats and crises, not only infectious diseases but all sorts of health issues. Additionally, the WHO provides commodities and goods to improve health around the world, including vaccines and drugs for many diseases.

The U.S. has been a core funder and leader of the WHO for over 75 years, contributing around 12% to 15% of its funding in 2022-2023. The U.S.'s withdrawal from the WHO will likely lead to a loss of jobs, reduction of work, and less ability for the organization to perform its functions effectively. This could result in a slower response to emerging health threats and pandemics, as well as a decreased capacity to provide technical assistance to countries.

Moreover, the U.S.'s withdrawal may create a political vacuum that could be filled by other countries, such as China, which could potentially influence the WHO's decisions and actions. This could have significant implications for global health security and the U.S.'s standing in the world.

To maintain global health security in the absence of U.S. funding and leadership, other countries, international organizations, and private sector entities can step in to support the WHO. Increased financial contributions from countries like the European Union, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, as well as BRICS nations and Gulf States, can help offset the loss of U.S. funding. Additionally, technical expertise and human resources can be provided through the secondment of public health experts to the WHO, and scientific knowledge exchange can be facilitated through informal channels.

In conclusion, the U.S.'s withdrawal from the WHO is a dangerous move at a critical time for global health security. Other countries, international organizations, and private sector entities must step in to support the WHO and maintain global health security in the absence of U.S. funding and leadership. The international community must work together to ensure that the global response to emerging health threats and pandemics remains strong and effective.