Ann Arbor Times

President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) has sparked concerns about its impact on global health and safety. Scott Greer, a political scientist and professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, expressed his apprehensions regarding this move.

Greer stated that leaving WHO is "petty, self-defeating and bad for U.S. foreign policy." He emphasized that this decision undermines the United States' ability to promote its goals and influence within an organization crucial for setting healthcare standards and coordinating aid.

He highlighted the benefits of WHO membership for Americans, noting that while these advantages might not be immediately visible, they play a significant role in disease outbreak prevention and establishing best practices in medicine. The WHO's involvement in containing Ebola outbreaks serves as an example of such benefits.

Regarding global pandemics, Greer noted that WHO will continue its role but with reduced effectiveness due to the loss of U.S. funding and influence. He explained that WHO acts as a clearinghouse for data essential for formulating responses to health threats.

In discussing avian flu, Greer mentioned that domestically, agencies like the CDC handle monitoring and containment efforts. However, globally, WHO coordinates notifications and plays a critical role if it becomes a human pandemic by advocating for vaccine equity.

Greer pointed out several upsides to U.S. membership in WHO, including shaping its agenda and fostering international cooperation. He acknowledged some downsides, such as costs and occasional misalignment with U.S. foreign policy goals but argued that withdrawing guarantees the absence of a U.S. voice.