"The WHO acknowledges the U.S. government's accusations that the organization has 'disgraced, tarnished,' and insulted the country," the statement notes.However, the WHO asserts that "in fact, it is the opposite." The organization has always sought productive cooperation with the United States and other countries, respecting their sovereignty.
One of the reasons for the U.S. withdrawal was the "WHO's mistakes during the COVID-19 pandemic," including allegations of "hindering timely and accurate sharing of important information" and accusations of concealing these mistakes.
The WHO, in turn, states that it acted swiftly and shared all available information with the international community, providing guidance to countries.
The organization also noted that it recommended the use of masks, vaccination, and physical distancing, but did not insist on mandatory mask-wearing, vaccination, or isolation. The WHO supported countries in making decisions that align with the interests of their citizens.
In addition to this, the U.S. claimed that the WHO "adhered to a politicized agenda driven by countries opposing American interests."
To this, the WHO responded: "This is not true. As a specialized agency of the UN, the WHO, governed by 194 member states, has always been and remains impartial, serving all countries without bias."
The organization also expressed gratitude to those states that continue to cooperate with the WHO to address serious health challenges.
Last year, WHO members adopted a pandemic agreement, which, after ratification, will become an important tool of international law for protection against future pandemics.
Photo on the main page: WHO / P. Virot.
