Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Proposes Bill to Withdraw from WHO
Matteo Salvini introduces legislation following U.S. decision to exit World Health Organization
On January 23, 2025, Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the League party, Matteo Salvini, announced the submission of a bill to withdraw Italy from the World Health Organization (WHO).
This move mirrors the recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to initiate the United States' departure from the WHO.
Salvini stated, 'I presented this morning at the Chamber of Deputies, the League's bill to leave the WHO, as did the United States with Donald Trump.' The proposal reflects a growing skepticism among certain political factions regarding the WHO's role and effectiveness in global health governance.
The U.S. withdrawal, announced earlier this week, has prompted the WHO to implement cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze and travel restrictions, due to the anticipated loss of funding from its largest contributor.
The WHO's budget for 2024–2025 stands at $6.8 billion, with the U.S. previously contributing a significant portion.
The potential withdrawal of Italy, another key member state, could further impact the organization's financial stability and its capacity to address global health challenges.
The bill's progression through Italy's legislative process will be closely monitored, as it holds significant implications for both national and international public health policy.
This move mirrors the recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to initiate the United States' departure from the WHO.
Salvini stated, 'I presented this morning at the Chamber of Deputies, the League's bill to leave the WHO, as did the United States with Donald Trump.' The proposal reflects a growing skepticism among certain political factions regarding the WHO's role and effectiveness in global health governance.
The U.S. withdrawal, announced earlier this week, has prompted the WHO to implement cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze and travel restrictions, due to the anticipated loss of funding from its largest contributor.
The WHO's budget for 2024–2025 stands at $6.8 billion, with the U.S. previously contributing a significant portion.
The potential withdrawal of Italy, another key member state, could further impact the organization's financial stability and its capacity to address global health challenges.
The bill's progression through Italy's legislative process will be closely monitored, as it holds significant implications for both national and international public health policy.