Beating the heat is now part of hosting
Politics — 2026-07-04 17:00:00 — www.politico.com
Donald Trump’s Withdrawal from the WHO Leaves U.S. Out of Global Health Coordination
President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) after voicing complaints about the organization’s funding and its response to the Covid-19 pandemic. This decision, which took effect in January, removed the U.S. from direct participation in WHO-led initiatives, including efforts to address the risks of extreme weather at major international events like the World Cup.
Impact on World Cup Health Preparedness
Despite the U.S. no longer being a member of the WHO, the country—along with Canada and Mexico—has continued to participate in World Cup preparedness through a health security working group coordinated by the WHO and its regional arm, the Pan American Health Organization. This collaboration is particularly important as rising temperatures and extreme weather events pose growing risks to athletes and spectators alike.
Trump’s withdrawal was based on his stated dissatisfaction with the WHO’s handling of the pandemic and the financial contributions required from the U.S. However, public health officials and international partners have continued to emphasize the need for coordinated global responses to health threats, especially as the world prepares for large-scale events in increasingly challenging climates.
Conclusion: U.S. Global Health Leadership in Question
Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the WHO over funding and pandemic response complaints has had lasting effects on America’s role in global health initiatives. While the U.S. remains involved in some collaborative efforts, its absence from full WHO membership raises questions about the country’s long-term commitment to international health and safety at major events. As climate change intensifies, the need for unified action and leadership in global health is more critical than ever.