U.S. withdrawal from WHO set for January 22, 2026 amid dispute over unpaid dues (npr.org)

• U.S. withdrawal from WHO effective Jan 22, 2026 per Trump administration.
• Dispute over $278 million unpaid dues; U.S. refuses payment.
• Loss of access to WHO surveillance networks could weaken global health security.

"The Trump administration declares the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization effective January 22, 2026, one year after the initial executive order. The WHO constitution does not allow withdrawal, but the U.S. secured a unique exit clause in 1948. The U.S. refuses to pay $278 million in outstanding dues, which the WHO says is required for withdrawal. The U.S. risks losing access to global health surveillance networks, including influenza and measles data. WHO Director-General Tedros calls the decision a 'lose-lose' scenario. The matter will be discussed at the WHO Executive Board in February 2026 and the World Health Assembly in May."