The WHO has faced criticism for its handling of major health crises, including allegations of a lack of transparency, conflicts of interest, and prioritising political considerations over scientific evidence. Concerns have also been raised about its “one-size-fits-all” approach, which may not always align with New Zealand’s unique needs and priorities.
By exiting the WHO, New Zealand can:
Make decisions tailored to the health challenges and demographics specific to New Zealand, rather than adhering to policies designed for a global context.
Make decisions tailored to the health challenges and demographics specific to New Zealand, rather than adhering to policies designed for a global context.
Create a system that creates openness and accountability, ensuring decisions are based on evidence and what is best for New Zealand.
Exiting the WHO doesn’t mean abandoning global health collaboration. Instead, it provides an opportunity to establish partnerships and initiatives that better reflect New Zealand’s values and health priorities.
We need 400,000 'wet ink’ signatures to trigger a referendum to let New Zealander decided if we stay or leave the World Health Organization (WHO). Here are 10 top reasons to be concerned about the WHO.
The WHO’s "one-size-fits-all" policies often ignore national and individual health needs. Agreements like the proposed Pandemic Treaty could limit local decision-making and burden taxpayers.
Once state-funded, the WHO now relies on private donors for 88% of its budget, with 10% from a single donor. Its 2024 investment round sought $7.1 billion, estimating a $35 return per $1 invested. Funds often support ideologically possessed vanity projects rather than core health priorities. Investors can invest in climate change or gender equity healthcare.
Large donors earmark funds for specific projects, giving them undue influence. These directed contributions can generate external profits for donors, while governments lose decision-making power. The WHO reportedly controls only 25% of its budget yet significantly impacts New Zealand’s health policies.
Established in 2020 without formal member state consultation, the WHO Foundation facilitates private investment. It partners with venture capitalists like Our Crowd, attracting investors seeking returns. Donors include Pfizer and Merck, raising concerns about corporate influence.
The WHO increasingly operates behind closed doors, bypassing its own rules. Amendments to International Health Regulations (IHRs) were drafted in private, with member states given insufficient time to review before voting in breach of the constitution.
New Zealand taxpayers fund the WHO through assessed and voluntary contributions, yet even specific government departments claim they cannot tracktotal spending over the past 25 years. The cost of implementing new IHRs and the Pandemic Treaty remains unknown. A global study estimated IHR implementation at $124 billion over five years—a major concern given New Zealand’s $1.4 billion dollar health deficit.
Swine Flu (2009) WHO’s declaration led to overreaction, costly vaccinations, and $31 million spent in NZ for 69 deaths.
Ebola (2014-16) Delayed response worsened the crisis.
COVID-19: Rigid policies caused economic and social harm, ignoring alternative, localised solutions that could have been more effective for New Zealand. $58.4 billion was allocated from the CRRF before its closure in Budget 2022.
Misuse of Funds & Sexual Abuse: The WHO has also faced misuse of funds and sexual abuse scandals.
Exiting the WHO would allow New Zealand to redirect funds toward hospital waitlists, mental health, and cancer care. The U.S. withdrew in 2020 with no adverse effects and has exited again in 2025.
The WHO’s ties to pharmaceutical companies raise concerns about biased recommendations. Industry-linked advisors risk shaping policies that prioritize profits over public health.
Concerns persist over the CCP’s growing influence on WHO priorities and decision-making.
Exiting the WHO means New Zealand would no longer be bound by its policies, recommendations, or agreements this allows us to independently develop and implement health strategies that better suit its population’s needs.
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