WHO says US withdrawal makes world less safe

The World Health Organization (WHO) says America's decision to withdraw makes both the United States and the world less safe. The UN agency, which the U.S. has been a founding member of, highlighted America's crucial role in eradicating public health threats like smallpox, polio, tuberculosis, malaria, HIV, Ebola, and antimicrobial resistance. The U.S. announced withdrawal on January 22, citing WHO failures during the COVID-19 pandemic and obstruction of information sharing.

The WHO pushed back against these claims, stating it responded rapidly and transparently after the first Wuhan pneumonia cases on December 31, 2019. It clarified it recommended masks, vaccines, and physical distancing but never enforced mask or vaccine mandates or lockdowns. The organization rejected accusations of a "politicized agenda" and maintained its impartiality.

The withdrawal will be formally considered at the WHO Executive Board meeting in February and the World Health Assembly in May 2026. While the WHO expressed hope for future U.S. return, the departure creates a significant funding and expertise gap. Nigeria and other African nations heavily rely on WHO support for disease surveillance and outbreaks. The global health body's weakened position could impact response times for future pandemics and ongoing health initiatives across the continent.

Will other countries follow the U.S. lead, or will this force a reform in how global health institutions are funded and managed?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/25/who-says-us-withdrawal-makes-america-world-less-safe/