The World Health Organization (WHO) is an international organization whose objective is to find solutions to health-related problems at the global level and make policies for them.

The US, the world’s largest economy, is also a key member of WHO and its largest source of funding. But if the US distances itself from WHO, it could have serious consequences for the global health system.

The relationship between the US and WHO has not always been stable. Notably, during the tenure of former US President Donald Trump, the US leveled several allegations against the WHO, including failure to properly handle the COVID-19 pandemic and bias towards China.

History of relations between the US and WHO

In 2020, Trump froze US funding to the WHO and began the process of withdrawing from the organization. However, President Joe Biden reversed this decision as soon as he/she came to power in 2021 and re-admitted the US to WHO. But if the US permanently withdraws from WHO, it will have deep implications globally.

Financial impact on WHO

America is WHO’s largest funding source. In 2020, the US provided financial assistance to WHO amounting to approximately $893 million (about Rs 6,700 crore), which was about 15% of the organization’s total budget. If America leaves WHO, the organization may face a serious financial crisis. Due to this lack of funding, many of WHO’s plans, such as vaccination programs, prevention of infectious diseases and management of global health crises, could be disrupted. Many developing countries, which depend on WHO, will suffer the most.

Impact on global health

WHO plays a vital role during health crises. This organization not only provides guidelines for treating diseases but also ensures the distribution of vaccines and medical resources. If America withdraws from this organization, global cooperation and coordination will be affected in situations like epidemics. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven that diseases do not know borders, and that a health crisis in one country impacts the entire world. In the absence of the US, WHO may lack the necessary resources and effective leadership, making the health crisis difficult to manage. America’s exit from WHO can harm its image at the international level. The move could set the US back from the race for “global leadership” and provide an opportunity for countries like China to increase influence in the WHO.
China already plays an important role in WHO. If America withdraws, China’s dominance in WHO will increase further. This situation may raise questions about transparency and fairness in global health policies.

Impact on developing countries

One of the main objectives of WHO is to provide health facilities to developing countries. In the absence of US funding, these countries will have difficulty in providing vaccination, medicines and health services. This will have a serious impact especially on African and South Asian countries, which are largely dependent on WHO’s resources.

America will also be affected

America’s separation from WHO could also be dangerous for its own health security. WHO plays an important role in global health monitoring. If America is left out of this surveillance system, it will not be able to be aware of the dangers of new diseases and epidemics in time. This could put the health of American citizens at risk.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It cannot in any way be a substitute for any medicine or treatment. Always consult your doctor for more information.

#developing countries #global health #pandemic management #What does WHO do?

How America’s move could weaken WHO and the global health system

History of relations between the US and WHO

Financial impact on WHO

Impact on global health

Impact on developing countries

America will also be affected

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