The U.S. announced the completion of its withdrawal procedures from the World Health Organization (WHO), according to a Japanese news outlet. The exit was first initiated by the former President Trump’s administration accusing WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic and favoritism towards China. However, the current Biden administration has hinted at reversing the decision, further fuelling intense global scrutiny and speculation.

For Japan, a country highly supportive of multilateral international cooperation, the U.S.'s withdrawal from WHO has been met with concern and surprise. The country, with a populace closely following health issues, especially amid the pandemic, views the move as potentially disruptive to global health cooperation and pandemic response. The subject has thus sparked notable public debate regarding Japan’s stance towards the U.S. decision and overall diplomatic policies.

In the U.S., the decision resulted in divisive opinions ranging from support for the hold of financial contributions until WHO reforms, to criticism for endangering global health during a pandemic. Meanwhile, the EU, with its strong commitment to multilateral cooperation, largely criticized the move, fearing it might undermine the global response to the pandemic.