The administration of US President Donald Trump has introduced a proposal to reform the World Health Organization (WHO), which includes a recommendation to appoint an American as the organisation’s director-general.
Reuters reported this on Thursday (6 February), citing a draft proposal and information from two sources familiar with the matter, indicating that the plan aims to ensure the United States maintains its membership within the WHO.
Prior to Trump assuming office, a document circulated among his advisers recommended an expedited withdrawal of the United States from the WHO.
The document also advised the adoption of a "new strategy" that would seek to position an American candidate as director-general once the current incumbent, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, concludes his term in 2027.
Shortly after taking office, Trump signed an executive order initiating the withdrawal of the United States from the WHO, marking one of his administration’s early policy decisions.
This withdrawal, set to be finalised by January 2026, would result in the WHO losing its largest funding partner, potentially having a significant impact on the organisation’s operations.
The executive order cited alleged mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic and claimed undue influence from certain countries over the WHO, accusations the organisation has consistently denied, maintaining its commitment to impartial efforts in advancing global health.
Although Trump has since indicated that the United States might rejoin the WHO if the organisation ensures greater "transparency", he has not clarified what specific changes would be required to meet this condition.
Discussions regarding the proposed reforms had commenced even before Trump took office, but it remains uncertain whether his administration will consider additional recommendations related to the WHO, according to the aforementioned sources.
In a statement to Reuters, White House spokesperson Kush Desai confirmed that the Trump administration would continue to review current processes and health organisations to implement necessary reforms. However, Desai declined to comment on any specific discussions pertaining to the WHO.
