By Peter Ongera. Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has reignited a storm of unilateral actions, putting global health, climate stability, and international cooperation at risk
Trump’s decision to withdraw the U.S.A. from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Paris Agreement signals a retreat from global leadership at a time when humanity can least afford it.
The consequences are stark. Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO deprives the organisation of 15 per cent of its funding—money critical to vaccine distribution in low-income countries, disease tracking, and emergency response efforts.
Without this support, global health systems are severely weakened, leaving millions vulnerable to pandemics and health crises.
“Trump’s decision to cut WHO funding during multiple health crises is nothing short of catastrophic,” says Colombe Cahen-Salvador, co-founder of Atlas, a global progressive movement.
“This undermines the WHO’s ability to save lives, especially in regions already struggling with diseases like Ebola and new threats such as the Marburg virus.”
The decision comes amidst mounting global health emergencies. The WHO’s work has been vital in containing outbreaks, distributing vaccines, and coordinating international responses.
Cutting its funding at such a critical juncture could mean slower responses, fewer vaccines, and fewer health workers in the field.
On the climate front, Trump’s actions are equally dangerous. His withdrawal from the Paris Agreement undermines the collective effort to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
The U.S., responsible for 14 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, has abandoned its commitments, signalling a renewed push for fossil fuel expansion and a rollback of environmental protections.
“This is a slap in the face to every nation already bearing the brunt of climate change,” Cahen-Salvador states.
Cahen-Salvador said: “Trump’s actions not only sabotage international efforts but also intensify the suffering of low-emission countries already grappling with extreme weather, displacement, and famine.”
Trump’s actions set a dangerous precedent, weakening global cooperation and emboldening other nations to follow suit.
The U.S., one of the world’s most influential players, has abandoned its role as a leader in addressing transnational threats.
“By retreating into nationalism, Trump is turning his back on the interconnected nature of today’s challenges,” Cahen-Salvador argues.
“Whether it’s pandemics, climate change, or technological risks, no country can tackle these alone. Collaboration is not a choice; it’s a necessity.”
The world now stands at a crossroads. The first path is the easy one: retreating into nationalism and prioritising short-term interests over long-term survival.
This approach risks maintaining the status quo at best and accelerating global crises at worst.
The second path is more demanding but holds the promise of lasting change. It requires nations to step up where the U.S. has faltered and to strengthen international institutions like the United Nations.
Nations must act decisively to counter Trump’s destructive policies. On climate, this means adopting carbon taxes, supporting fossil fuel non-proliferation treaties, and increasing financing for climate adaptation in vulnerable regions.
On global health, countries must bolster the WHO with financial and political support, ensuring it can continue its vital work.
“The rest of the world must lead where the U.S. is failing,” Cahen-Salvador emphasises. “This is our chance to prove that global cooperation can prevail over isolationism,”
Trump’s actions highlight the urgent need for United Nations reform. The UN’s outdated structures, dominated by veto powers and bureaucracy, must be overhauled to address modern challenges effectively.
“Trump’s tantrums have exposed the cracks in the UN,” Cahen-Salvador says. “It’s time to rebuild it into a transparent, democratic, and accountable institution that can tackle the biggest threats of our time.”
Movements like Atlas are already campaigning for these reforms, advocating for the abolition of veto powers and empowering the General Assembly.
Civil society must rally to ensure the UN evolves into a body capable of addressing today’s transnational challenges.
This is a critical juncture for humanity. The decisions made now will shape the future of global health, climate stability, and international cooperation.
By stepping up to fill the void left by the U.S., the world can counter Trump’s destructive policies and build a more resilient future.
As Cahen-Salvador concludes, “This is the moment to choose collaboration over division, action over apathy. Together, we can overcome these challenges and ensure humanity not only survives but thrives.”
Now is the time to act—to reform, to cooperate, and to lead. The world must rise to the occasion.
Article available at: https://www.kajiado.co.ke/trumps-reckless-global-gambit-why-the-world-must-step-up/