US notifies UN of formal withdrawal from WHO

The Trump administration has formally notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the World Health Organisation, although the pullout won’t take effect until next year, meaning it could be rescinded under a new administration or if circumstances change. Former Vice President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, said he would reverse the decision on his first day in office if elected.

The withdrawal notification makes good on President Donald Trump’s vow in May to terminate US participation in the WHO, which he has criticised for its response to the coronavirus pandemic and accused of bowing to Chinese influence.

The move was immediately assailed by health officials and critics of the administration, including numerous Democrats who said it would cost the US influence in the global arena.

Biden has said in the past he supports the WHO and pledged to rejoin the WHO if he defeats Trump in November.

“Americans are safer when

America is engaged in strengthening global health. On my first day as president, I will rejoin the WHO and restore our leadership on the world stage,” he said.

Trump is trailing Biden in multiple polls and has sought to distract from his administration’s mishandling of the pandemic in the US by attacking China and the WHO.

Under the terms of the withdrawal, the US must meet its financial obligations to the WHO. The US currently owes the WHO US$200m in current and past dues.