By the time the United States renewed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) under President Trump’s second term, global health systems began to brace for impact. For Bangladesh, the focus quickly turned to one critical area: child immunisation.

Md Mustafizur Rahman, a former Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UN offices in Geneva, believes this is a pivotal moment—not a crisis, but a call to action. While U.S. support has historically aided WHO-led child health programs, Rahman is optimistic that Bangladesh can turn this challenge into an opportunity to strengthen its health system from within.

For decades, Bangladesh has partnered with WHO to increase vaccine coverage for children—introducing life-saving vaccines like BCG for tuberculosis, DPT for diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus, and the pentavalent vaccine that protects against five serious diseases. These efforts have dramatically reduced child mortality and helped the country meet key Millennium Development Goals.

The WHO’s technical expertise, financial support, and guidance were instrumental in reaching zero-dose (ZD) and under-immunised (UI) children—especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Programs built with WHO support, such as the Health Population Nutrition Sector Programme (HPNSP), helped Bangladesh aim for universal health coverage and equitable immunisation access.

With the U.S. stepping back, Bangladesh now faces a unique challenge. But instead of slowing down, the country is stepping up. Through domestic initiatives and smart partnerships, Bangladesh is working to protect every child’s right to immunisation.

Community health workers are being empowered to identify and reach ZD and UI children through digital tracking systems and community mapping. The government is also exploring innovative financing to sustain immunisation drives and vaccine logistics—ensuring BCG, DPT, and pentavalent doses reach every corner of the country.

Moreover, strong partnerships with the European Union, UNICEF, and other regional allies continue to bridge any resource gaps. By strengthening local health systems, focusing on preventive healthcare, and improving access to essential vaccines, Bangladesh is turning this geopolitical shift into a pathway toward long-term resilience.

Md Mustafizur Rahman notes that Bangladesh’s response showcases the strength of its health leadership and the power of community-based action. “With WHO’s continued technical support and our own commitment, we will ensure no child is left behind,” he says.

As the Country Learning Hub for Immunisation Equity continues to lead efforts in Bangladesh, the mission remains clear: reduce the number of zero-dose children, reach the unreached, and ensure that every child, everywhere, receives the vaccines they deserve.   

Reference: 

US withdrawal from the WHO: Implications for Bangladesh. Dhakatribune.com. [cited 2025 Apr 23]. Available from: https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/374998/us-withdrawal-from-the-who-implications-for