The USA finalized its exit from the WHO without settling close to $260 million in obligations, possibly endangering worldwide programs focused on epidemic prevention.
The United States finalized its departure from the World Health Organization (WHO), concluding a year-long transitional period. Despite the formal separation, Washington has left behind approximately $260 million in outstanding dues, jeopardizing international programs aimed at combating outbreaks. Bloomberg reports, UNN writes .
Details
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has verified a total cessation of funding and the removal of personnel from all organizational branches. President Donald Trump, who initiated the action on his first day of his subsequent term, attributed the decision to the WHO’s perceived politicization and ineffectiveness during the COVID-19 health crisis. Legal representatives for the administration assert that the US isn’t obliged to settle debts prior to the final withdrawal.
This is a very complicated divorce.
– stated Lawrence Gostin, director of the WHO Collaborating Center at Georgetown University.
He underscored the absence of a mechanism for compulsory fund recovery.
Threats to global security
The departure of a prominent contributor, who previously furnished almost $1.3 billion over a two-year span, imperils operations geared towards containing polio and Ebola. The U.S. medical fraternity also expresses worry regarding the loss of access to global data pertaining to influenza strains, which will complicate the development of yearly vaccines.
Withdrawing from the World Health Organization is scientifically ill-advised
– emphasized Ronald Nahass, president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America.