By Charles Maduka
The Director-General of the World Health Organisation, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has warned that the United States’ decision to withdraw from the global health body poses serious risks to both the country and the rest of the world.
Tedros said the move would weaken global health security, stressing that the United States benefits significantly from programmes coordinated through the WHO, particularly in the area of disease prevention and emergency response.
He noted that health threats such as pandemics do not respect national borders, adding that no country can be truly safe without strong international cooperation through organisations like the WHO.
The WHO chief expressed regret over the decision and appealed to the United States to reconsider and return to the organisation, saying global solidarity remains the most effective defence against common health threats.
He also acknowledged the financial implications of the withdrawal but insisted that the issue goes beyond funding, emphasising that cooperation, shared responsibility and preparedness are essential to protecting lives worldwide.
Tedros said the COVID-19 pandemic showed the importance of unity in confronting global health challenges, adding that collective action remains the best protection against future outbreaks.
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