Impact of US Withdrawal on WHO Budget

February 4, 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) faces challenges following the United States’ decision to withdraw its funding. As the largest contributor, the US accounted for approximately 18% of the WHO’s overall budget. This withdrawal has prompted discussions among WHO member states about a potential $400 million budget cut.

Context of US Withdrawal

The US formally announced its intention to withdraw from the WHO in January 2025.
This decision was made by President Donald Trump, who had previously accused the organisation of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic.
The withdrawal process will take one year, officially taking effect in January 2026. This move has raised concerns about the future of global health initiatives, particularly in combating diseases like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.

WHO’s Financial Structure

The WHO operates with a proposed budget of $7.5 billion for the 2026-27 period.
The budget includes funding for various health programmes, including polio eradication and emergency responses.
The proposed cut reduces the base programme budget from $5.3 billion to $4.9 billion, echoing the previous budget cycle.
The loss of US funding will impact the WHO’s ability to implement health programmes globally.

Implications for Global Health

Experts warn that the US withdrawal will create a leadership vacuum in global health.
Without US involvement, countries like China may increase their influence within the WHO.
This shift could alter global health priorities and funding allocations.
The WHO’s ability to respond to health emergencies and provide support to low-income countries may be severely hindered.

Reactions to the Withdrawal

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called for dialogue with the US and other member states to improve the organisation’s effectiveness. The WHO has emphasised its crucial role in global health security and hopes to maintain a constructive partnership with the US.

Legal and Political Considerations

The legality of the US withdrawal is under scrutiny. The US joined the WHO through Congressional resolutions, raising questions about whether a unilateral withdrawal is permissible. Legal experts suggest that Congress may need to approve any withdrawal, indicating potential challenges ahead.

Future of Global Health Funding

With the US stepping back, the WHO may struggle to secure alternative funding sources. This situation could lead to a reduction in healthcare access for vulnerable populations worldwide. The WHO’s role in coordinating international health responses could diminish, impacting global preparedness for future pandemics.

Financial Impact of US Withdrawal from WHO

Loss of Major Funding: The US provides about 20% of WHO’s funding. If it withdraws, WHO will lose a major source of financial support.
Two Types of WHO Funding:
- Assessed Contributions: Fixed payments by member countries; the US pays the most (22.5%).
- Voluntary Contributions: Extra funds donated by countries and organizations. The US is the largest donor (13% in 2023).
Comparison with China:
- The US pays about $138 million as assessed contributions, while China pays $87.6 million.
- In voluntary contributions, the US gave $356.3 million in 2023, whereas China gave only $3.9 million (0.14% of total contributions).
Other Contributors: The second-largest voluntary donor is the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).
Global Response: Due to US uncertainty, countries like Australia, Indonesia, and Spain pledged $1.7 billion in 2024, helping WHO secure 53% of its 2025-28 budget.