As U.S. abandons the world, China seizes global leadership with staggering $500 million WHO pledge

China has made a significant commitment by pledging $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next five years. This donation positions China as the largest state contributor to the organization, taking over from the United States after the Trump administration decided to withdraw.

The withdrawal by the Trump administration, which was a key aspect of its “America First” policy, created a major funding gap within the WHO. The U.S. departure, along with its criticisms of the WHO and international collaboration in general, has created a space in global leadership that China is keen to occupy. Now, China seems to be the leader in keeping us all safe through research and disease prevention.

The $500 million pledge was announced by Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. China frames this donation as a response to what it describes as “unilateralism” and “power politics,” terms frequently associated with the U.S. approach to foreign relations during the Trump era. This contribution is not merely about providing financial support; it is a calculated strategy to improve China’s global image and solidify its role in international affairs.

China has taken the US’ spot at WHO

By stepping in to fill the gap left by the U.S., China is trying to portray itself as a responsible global leader committed to cooperation in public health. This action is consistent with China’s broader foreign policy strategy under President Xi Jinping, which is marked by a more assertive and engaged stance on global issues.

Lui told delegates, “The world is now facing the impacts of unilateralism and power politics bringing major challenges to global health security… Multilateralism is a sure pass to addressing difficulties.”

The donation is a clear illustration of Beijing’s efforts to enhance its international influence and reshape the world order. This is seen not only in the context of public health but also in areas like climate change and renewable energy, where China’s substantial investments in green technologies are positioning it as a leader. The fact that China produces over 60 percent of the world’s electric vehicles and 80 percent of their batteries emphasizes this ambition.

The increased financial support for the WHO also affects Taiwan’s participation in the organization. At China’s request, Taiwan has been barred from the World Health Assembly for the past nine years. China’s growing influence within the WHO, bolstered by its financial contributions, complicates Taiwan’s attempts to join, emphasizing the broader geopolitical tensions between China and the U.S. China has even stated the U.S. is being less than truthful about who started COVID.

Some people view China’s efforts in this context as a way to assert its claim over Taiwan, undermining Taiwan’s status as an independent entity. Additionally, this increased funding from China may help it respond to previous critiques from the U.S. regarding its management of the coronavirus pandemic.

The WHO itself is currently grappling with significant financial difficulties following the U.S. withdrawal. The organization has already lowered its budget for 2026-2027 by 21 percent, bringing it down to $4.2 billion. To address the resulting shortfall, the new budget, which will be finalized at the World Health Assembly, includes a planned 20 percent increase in mandatory fees for member countries over the next two years.

While it is not yet clear whether China’s $500 million pledge covers this fee hike, the size of the donation is undeniably important in helping to alleviate the financial gap created by the U.S. departure.