Korede Abdullah in Lagos
President Donald Trump has announced that the US will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing the organization’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its failure to adopt necessary reforms.
Trump has also accused the WHO of aiding China in covering up the origins of COVID-19. While some lawmakers have criticized the WHO, many have denounced Trump’s decision to withdraw, calling it “an act of true senselessness”.
The executive order signed by The US President on Monday points to the WHO’s alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, its failure to adopt reforms, and its inability to demonstrate independence from political influence as reasons for the withdrawal.
This action has drawn criticism from public health experts, who argue that the withdrawal will have severe consequences for global health. Trump has long been critical of the WHO, and his administration began the withdrawal process in July 2020, only to be halted by President Joe Biden four years ago.
The withdrawal process is expected to take effect, with the US ceasing its funding and participation in WHO activities.
The WHO has been instrumental in coordinating international responses to health emergencies, and the US withdrawal is likely to have significant implications for global health security.
