The United States officially completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization on Thursday, ending nearly eight decades of membership and raising concerns among public health experts about the future of HIV funding, research, and global health cooperation.
President Donald Trump initiated the departure on his first day in office in 2025, citing dissatisfaction with the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged political biases. The exit, finalized Thursday, ends U.S. financial contributions and participation in WHO governance, according to a report from the Associated Press.
Public health leaders warn that the move could mean the worldwide disruption of decades of progress in HIV prevention and treatment. The U.S. has been the largest supporter of global HIV programs, particularly through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, known as PEPFAR, which has provided antiretroviral treatment and prevention services to millions of people since its creation. Experts say the loss of WHO funding and coordination may worsen gaps in services that have helped reduce new infections and AIDS-related deaths, AP reports.
Researchers also fear diminished access to data and collaborative platforms. WHO’s global surveillance and research networks have supported vaccine and therapeutic development, and U.S. scientists have historically played a key role in shaping global HIV research priorities. Critics say withdrawal risks isolating U.S. researchers from vital international partnerships.
The Trump administration says it will pursue bilateral partnerships and direct funding to maintain global health leadership.
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