New York City has taken a bold step in global public health joining the United Nations’ global outbreak response network after the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). The move was announced this week by the New York City Health Department which says the city will now be part of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) of the WHO a global partnership of more than 360 institutions that helps coordinate responses to pandemics disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
The decision follows President Donald Trump’s formal exit of the U.S. from the WHO which was completed last month after a one‑year notice period triggered by an executive order he signed in January 2025. Trump’s administration said it withdrew from the world health body arguing that it did not sufficiently serve U.S. interests a move that has drawn sharp criticism from health experts and international partners who warn it could weaken global disease surveillance and response.
New York City’s leaders including Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the acting health commissioner say joining GOARN ensures the city retains access to vital international collaboration expertise and rapid‑response resources to protect residents against infectious threats that “know no boundaries.”
The shift also aligns with similar actions by other Democratic‑led regions. California and Illinois have announced plans to join the same WHO network moves seen as efforts to maintain U.S. engagement with global health systems despite the federal government’s policy change.
By tapping into GOARN New York City gains access to a global platform for sharing outbreak intelligence deploying experts and coordinating health resources with countries and organizations around the world a key asset in an era marked by frequent and unpredictable public health challenges.
