The Trump administration is reportedly considering a major shake-up of the World Health Organization (WHO), including a proposal to install an American as its next director-general. According to sources and a reviewed policy document, the administration is exploring a “radical new approach” to dealing with the global health agency, making U.S. leadership a condition for continued membership.
U.S. Withdrawal Threat: A Strategic Power Play?
One of Trump’s first executive orders after taking office was to initiate the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO. If the decision holds, the organization would lose its largest financial contributor by January 2026. The administration has accused WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic and allowing undue influence from other countries, claims the organization strongly denies.
However, Trump has suggested that the U.S. could reconsider its position if the WHO undergoes significant reforms. While he hasn’t detailed what these reforms would entail, the leaked policy document indicates a clear strategy: placing a U.S. official at the helm of the organization when Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus’s term ends in 2027.
The WHO’s Response: “We Have Reformed”
Søren Brostrøm, WHO’s Director of Transformation, refuted claims that the organization is inefficient or chaotic. In an interview, he emphasized that WHO has implemented substantial reforms in recent years, including changes to its funding model, increased autonomy for country directors, and improved transparency in financial management.
Brostrøm acknowledged that the organization has a complex mandate but rejected the notion that its crisis responses have been disorderly. He stated that if member states, including the U.S., request further reforms, WHO would be open to discussions.
A Push for American Leadership at WHO
The leaked proposal suggests that in 2025, Trump could appoint a U.S. special envoy to oversee negotiations with WHO ahead of the scheduled withdrawal. This envoy would advocate for a U.S. candidate to become the next WHO director-general.
Historically, no American has ever held this position. The document argues that this lack of leadership has contributed to wasted U.S. funds and inefficiencies within the organization. However, WHO’s leadership selection process involves multiple countries, requiring a candidate to secure at least two-thirds of member state votes.
Potential Fallout and Global Reactions
With the U.S. contributing approximately 18% of WHO’s total funding—around $530 million annually—its withdrawal could create financial instability for the organization. WHO has warned that without replacement funding, it may face budget cuts, affecting global health initiatives.
The administration’s stance has sparked concerns among U.S. lawmakers and global health experts. Last week, 43 members of Congress urged Trump to reconsider, citing risks to both American and global health security. Legal action to challenge the withdrawal is also being explored.
What’s Next?
As discussions continue, the future of the U.S.-WHO relationship remains uncertain. While Trump’s strategy aims to strengthen American influence in global health governance, it could also lead to diplomatic tensions and financial strain on international health programs. The coming months will determine whether WHO bends to U.S. demands or whether Trump follows through on his exit plan.
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