Janice R. Andrews
In an unexpected development, former US President Donald Trump revealed on Saturday that he might contemplate the United States rejoining the World Health Organization (WHO). This announcement follows closely on the heels of his directive for the US to exit the global health body, which he criticized for its management of the Covid-19 pandemic and other international health issues.
Addressing supporters at a Las Vegas rally, Trump stated, “Maybe we would consider doing it again, I don’t know. Maybe we would. They would have to clean it up.” These comments indicate a possible reversal in US policy regarding the WHO, potentially affecting global health partnerships.
Currently, the United States is the largest financial supporter of the WHO, contributing roughly 18 percent of its total budget. The organization’s most recent biennial budget for 2024-2025 is set at US$6.8 billion. Trump’s indication to possibly rejoin comes as the US plans to officially withdraw from the WHO by January 22, 2026—a move he declared shortly after his inauguration for a second term in office.
Trump also voiced his displeasure with the financial arrangements within the WHO, noting that the US contributes more funds than China despite the latter’s larger population. “I’m unhappy that the US paid more into the WHO than China,” Trump commented, suggesting an inequity in funding contributions.
Beyond the WHO discussion, Trump touched on economic issues, proposing that he would urge Saudi Arabia to increase its investment in the United States from US$600 billion to approximately US$1 trillion. This proposal follows recent conversations where Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed the kingdom’s desire to enhance investment and trade with the US over the next four years.
Trump’s latest statements introduce a degree of uncertainty regarding the US’s ongoing relationship with the WHO. Global health experts and international partners are watching these developments closely, anticipating potential shifts in health collaboration and funding mechanisms.
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