As the largest contributor, the United States has provided nearly $988 million, or 14 percent of the WHO’s budget. This funding has supported critical health programs around the world, including efforts in Europe, the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan. The lack of U.S. support threatens initiatives to combat diseases such as polio, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis.
Experts warn that the United States will face reduced disease intelligence capabilities, leading to worse health outcomes.
At the same time, China’s influence at the WHO is set to grow. The country is systematically preparing for international leadership, with 90 percent of its top universities launching programs to prepare students for careers in international organizations by 2027. This strategic move allows China to fill positions at the WHO vacated by the departure of US staff, thereby expanding its role in global health governance.
The US withdrawal not only has funding implications but also has broader diplomatic and economic implications. The decision has led to significant cuts to the WHO’s budget, including a freeze on staff recruitment and a reduction in travel expenses. These measures could hamper the organization’s ability to respond effectively to global health emergencies.
The US withdrawal from the WHO thus poses challenges to global health initiatives and opens up opportunities for increased influence by other countries, including China. The long-term implications of this shift remain to be seen, but the immediate impact underscores the interconnectedness of global health diplomacy and the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing global health challenges.
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