The United States has officially ended its membership in the World Health Organization as of January 22, 2026, and leaving about $260 million in unpaid dues.
This move marks the conclusion of a long-standing relationship in which the U.S. had been a founding member and historically the largest financial contributor to the global health agency.
Trump’s administration justified the withdrawal by accusing the WHO of poorly managing the COVID-19 pandemic, failing to implement necessary reforms, and being influenced politically by certain member states.
The executive order directing the exit also criticized the relatively high financial obligations required from the U.S. compared to other countries with larger populations but smaller contributions, such as China.
Legal experts say the move may violate US law, which requires a one-year notice period and full payment of outstanding contributions
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus publicly regretted the decision, emphasizing that cooperation with the U.S. is important for both American and global health security and urging Washington to reconsider its choice.
