Chciago – January 23, 2026
California has become the first U.S. state to join the World Health Organization’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN), a WHO‑coordinated body that deploys technical experts and resources during major public‑health emergencies.
The move comes one day after the United States formally withdrew from the WHO under President Donald Trump, who cited alleged mismanagement of the COVID‑19 pandemic and insufficient reforms.
Governor Gavin Newsom called Washington’s exit a “reckless decision” and said California would continue building global partnerships to strengthen outbreak preparedness.
GOARN includes more than 360 institutions worldwide and has played a central role in responses to crises such as COVID‑19, Ebola, and other cross‑border health threats. California’s membership is expected to enhance information‑sharing, surveillance, and rapid‑response coordination between state agencies and international partners.
