US withdrawal from the WHO: Implications for Bangladesh
Bangladesh now faces the urgent task of adapting to this new reality and finding alternative ways to address the funding gap left by decreased US support
Bangladesh now faces the urgent task of adapting to this new reality and finding alternative ways to address the funding gap left by decreased US supportThe beginning of Donald Trump's second term saw a quick and anticipated decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision echoed his earlier attempt in July 2020 -- an effort eventually reversed by President Biden, given the one-year notice required for formal withdrawal from this organization.
Now, with the withdrawal in motion again, the implications for global health are profound and concerning.In a densely populated country like Bangladesh, which is already facing significant health challenges, this move caused considerable anxiety. The WHO has long been a vital partner, offering technical expertise and financial support that have bolstered Bangladesh's healthcare system. As the United States reduces its global health role, Bangladesh now faces the urgent task of adapting to this new reality and finding alternative ways to address the funding gap left by decreased US support.As Bangladesh encounters new challenges, such as the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, health emergencies, and climate-related risks, the WHO remains an essential partner in enhancing resilience.
In the meantime, it has supported the development of the Health Population Nutrition Sector Programme (HPNSP) for which aims to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) by strengthening governance, health systems, and service quality. WHO's Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) for 2020–2024 provides a coordinated approach to advancing Bangladesh’s health agenda while ensuring the protection of past achievements.
