For the first time, the U.S. is absent from WHO's annual assembly. What's the impact?
NPR Online NewsMAY 15
China Pledges $500M in WHO Funding After US Withdrawal
Above: World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks during the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, May 19, 2025. Image copyright: Lian Yi/Contributor/Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
China's increased funding and participation in WHO demonstrates its commitment to global health leadership and multilateral cooperation. The $500 million pledge fills a critical funding gap and supports international solidarity in addressing worldwide health challenges. Beijing's expanded role helps maintain vital global health programs and strengthens international cooperation.
Anti-Trump narrative
The US withdrawal from WHO raises concerns about diminished American influence in global health policy and reduced access to critical scientific information. The departure compromises the organization's effectiveness and leaves a significant funding gap that affects emergency response capabilities and essential health programs worldwide. This retreat from international cooperation weakens global pandemic preparedness.
Pro-Trump narrative
The WHO is a body of questionable efficacy that should not be bankrolled by the American taxpayer. What’s worse, the WHO returns the favor by being a proxy for big pharma and foreign adversaries, weaponizing it against their biggest donor. We need a fresh start for international health cooperation, which can begin thanks to President Trump’s withdrawal.