Codifying U.S. Participation in the World Health Organization

I am writing to urge you to introduce and support legislation that codifies U.S. participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) for a renewable 10-year term, ensuring that our engagement in global health initiatives is not subject to abrupt political shifts. The COVID-19 pandemic made clear that global cooperation in public health is a matter of national security, and our involvement in the WHO is essential for protecting American lives, strengthening our healthcare system, and maintaining leadership on the world stage. Why Codifying WHO Participation Matters • Protecting American Public Health: The WHO provides real-time disease surveillance, pandemic response coordination, and global vaccine distribution, all of which directly benefit U.S. health security. • Strengthening Global Pandemic Preparedness: WHO membership ensures that the U.S. has a seat at the table when international health standards, emergency responses, and medical supply chains are developed. • Preventing Politicized Withdrawal: The U.S. has exited and rejoined the WHO based on presidential decisions, undermining our credibility and stability in global health policy. A 10-year term with congressional approval for renewal would ensure continuity. • Economic and Diplomatic Leadership: The U.S. contributes about 15% of WHO’s budget, giving us influence over global health priorities while supporting American research, pharmaceutical innovation, and public health diplomacy. Legislative Actions Needed 1. Codify U.S. Membership in the WHO for a Renewable 10-Year Term • Require Congressional approval for withdrawal rather than executive action alone. • Ensure the U.S. maintains leadership roles in WHO governance and policy decisions. 2. Mandate WHO Accountability and Transparency Reports to Congress • Strengthen WHO oversight by requiring annual reporting on spending, pandemic preparedness, and global health security improvements. 3. Increase U.S. Investment in Global Health Security • Expand funding for U.S.-WHO partnerships in vaccine research, infectious disease prevention, and medical infrastructure support. Global health threats do not respect borders, and the next pandemic, bioterrorism threat, or emerging disease is not a matter of if, but when. By codifying our participation in the WHO, the U.S. secures stable, long-term engagement in the international health community and ensures we are prepared for future health crises. I urge you to take immediate action to protect American health security, economic stability, and global leadership by making WHO participation a permanent and strategic commitment.