There is intense concern at the World Health Organization (WHO) following Donald Trump's decision for the US to withdraw, which will take place on January 26, 2026, as the UN confirmed today.
WHO Director-General Athanas Ghebreyesus, in an internal memo obtained by Reuters, announced a reduction in spending, while programs that should be prioritized will now be reviewed.
US President Donald Trump announced the US withdrawal from the WHO immediately after his inauguration on Monday, accusing the organization of mishandling the pandemic. covid-19 and other global health crises.
Hiring freeze and reduction of travel expenses
“This announcement has exacerbated our financial situation,” Tedros said in his memo to WHO staff dated January 23. He added that the WHO plans to significantly reduce travel expenses and freeze hiring as part of a series of cost-cutting measures.
A WHO spokesperson confirmed that the memo is authentic, but declined to comment.
Until now, the US has been the WHO's main funder, contributing about 18% of the organization's total budget. The WHO's most recent two-year budget for 2025 and 2026 is $8,6 billion.
Source: protothema.gr
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