The World Health Organization(WHO) has disclosed that it regrets the decision of United States of America to withdraw from the organization.

This was after US President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025 revealed plans of withdrawing US membership from WHO.

According to WHO, the United States was a founding member in 1948 and has participated in shaping and governing WHO’s work ever since, alongside 193 other member states.

In its statement dated January 21, 2025, WHO recognized the United States for its help in saving countless lives and protecting millions of people from health threats.

“Together, we ended smallpox and have brought polio to the brink of eradication. American institutions have contributed to and benefited from membership in WHO,” read part of WHO statement.

“Over the past seven years, the World Health Organization has undergone a sweeping transformation, thanks to the active participation of the United States and other member states. These reforms represent the largest set of changes in the organization’s history, aimed at improving its accountability, cost-effectiveness, and overall impact on global health.

“We hope the United States will reconsider and look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO. It is for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe,” read part of the statement.

Meanwhile, WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, by addressing the root causes of diseases.

The organization has played a key role in building stronger health systems, detecting, preventing, and responding to health emergencies worldwide.