U.S. Withdraws from WHO and Suspends Foreign Aid"<br/> + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

What’s the ongoing story?
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order announcing the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and suspending all foreign aid for 90 days. This move has sparked significant global concern, with implications for international health security and U.S. foreign policy.
Key Points to Ponder:
Why is the U.S. withdrawing from WHO?
What are the reasons cited for this decision?
Analyze the criticism of WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Discuss the financial disparities and political influence concerns raised by the U.S.
Impact of foreign aid suspension:
How will the 90-day pause in U.S. foreign aid affect global development initiatives?
Examine how this suspension could alter U.S. foreign policy priorities and alliances.
Global health implications:
How will the withdrawal impact global health initiatives, especially in combating diseases like HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis?
What alternative strategies can the global community adopt to fill the funding void left by the U.S.?
International reactions:
What has been the response of other nations and international organizations to the U.S. decision?
Evaluate the long-term impact on global cooperation in addressing health emergencies.
Key Takeaways:
WHO Withdrawal Justifications:
The U.S. administration criticized WHO’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged political influence from member states like China.
Financial contributions were deemed disproportionate, with the U.S. providing 18% of WHO’s budget despite a smaller population compared to China.
Foreign Aid Suspension:
The 90-day suspension of foreign aid is aimed at reassessing its alignment with U.S. foreign policy objectives.
Concerns were raised that previous aid efforts may have destabilized global peace by promoting ideas contrary to harmonious international relations.
Global Concerns:
Health experts and global leaders warned of setbacks to global health programs, particularly in disease eradication and pandemic preparedness.
Germany’s health minister called the withdrawal a "serious setback to international health security."
Historical Context:
This is not the first time the U.S. has threatened to leave the WHO. A similar decision in 2020 was reversed by President Joe Biden.
Do You Know?
Impact of U.S. Contributions:
The U.S. has been one of the largest donors to the WHO, providing nearly 18% of its budget. This funding supported crucial programs targeting global health crises.
Withdrawal Process:
The U.S. withdrawal will take up to a year to complete. During this period, the administration plans to identify alternative partners to continue health initiatives.
Foreign Aid Statistics:
The U.S. is the largest foreign aid donor globally. The suspension will temporarily halt aid programs in developing nations, potentially affecting millions of people.
Global Health Funding Gap:
The WHO may face funding challenges, which could lead to reduced effectiveness in addressing health emergencies and implementing vaccination campaigns.