Tue Jan 21 22:24:27 IST 2025: ## US Exit from WHO Sparks International Concern; India Pledges Continued Support
**NEW DELHI, January 21, 2025** – The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the organization, a move announced by President Donald Trump. Trump cited the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic as justification.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged the US to reconsider, emphasizing the vital role the US has played in the organization since its founding in 1948. He highlighted the collaborative successes achieved, including the eradication of smallpox and progress towards eliminating polio. The WHO noted that the US has consistently been a top three contributor to its funding, donating $693 million from 2020-2021, behind only Germany and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The WHO’s funding model relies on both assessed contributions from member states (less than 20% of the budget) and voluntary contributions. The US withdrawal will significantly impact the organization’s finances.
Despite the US’s departure, India reaffirmed its commitment to the WHO, pledging over $300 million in funding for the 2025-2028 period, a significant portion allocated to a Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine. India has consistently been a top ten contributor and has collaborated extensively with the WHO on various health initiatives, including the COVID-19 response.
Sudarshan Jain, secretary general of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, suggested that despite the US withdrawal, India and the US could collaborate on healthcare security and affordability. The long-standing partnership between the two nations, he noted, provides opportunities for future cooperation in this critical sector.
First Piper 