WHO negotiates US return, urges reconsideration of withdrawal's impact on global health

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that it is actively negotiating with the United States regarding its potential return to the organization, following Washington’s decision to withdraw in recent years.

Batyr Berdyklychev, head of the WHO office in Moscow, shared insights into the ongoing dialogue between the two parties, emphasizing that the talks are transparent and constructive, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

"We, of course, have negotiations with the United States. I would not call it some kind of behind-the-scenes bargaining, it is quite a frank and constructive dialogue. We hope that the United States will be able to reconsider its position," Berdyklychev stated.

Berdyklychev underscored that the issue at hand extends beyond financial contributions and includes the United States' substantial expert potential. The US has historically been the largest donor to the WHO, contributing nearly a fifth of the organization’s total budget. His comments come in light of the serious impact that US withdrawal could have on WHO’s global programs.

"If the United States decides to withdraw, it will have a negative impact on the organization’s ability to implement critical health programs worldwide," he warned. "Programs such as vaccination, tuberculosis, malaria, polio, HIV, for example, have already been threatened."

The potential loss of US funding is a significant blow to WHO’s ability to support vulnerable populations, many of whom rely on the health initiatives funded by the United States. Berdyklychev expressed regret over the US decision, emphasizing that those most at risk would bear the brunt of these cuts.

Despite the setbacks, the WHO chief reassured that the organization would continue its work, albeit with more limited resources. "Of course, WHO will not cease to exist. We will continue our work, although the scope of our programs may be more restricted due to limited funding," he added.

The WHO remains hopeful that the US will reassess its stance, recognizing the critical role the country plays not only in financial terms but also in terms of expertise in global health initiatives.

By Vafa Guliyeva