California has become the first U.S. state to join the WHO – World Health Organization’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) independently. This milestone follows the United States’ formal withdrawal from the WHO, which took effect on January 22, 2026. With this move, California establishes itself as a key partner in global health, linking its public health agencies to international disease surveillance systems.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the decision during a meeting with WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The partnership aims to strengthen California’s ability to detect and respond to emerging health threats through collaboration with global health experts and organizations.
How California is Boosting Public Health Preparedness
California’s membership in GOARN provides the state with access to real-time data and technical support during health emergencies. GOARN connects public health organizations, research institutions, and governments worldwide to manage outbreaks and health crises effectively.
By joining GOARN, California enhances its preparedness for public health emergencies. The state’s participation ensures direct collaboration with WHO and other global health bodies, offering valuable resources and expertise in outbreak detection and response. California’s Department of Public Health (CDPH) will work alongside international teams to share training, research, and resources in response to disease outbreaks.
Preparedness is not only about managing crises but also about building long-term systems that allow for sustained vigilance. California’s inclusion in GOARN underscores the state’s ongoing commitment to public health preparedness on both a local and global scale.
California Takes a Leadership Role in Global Health
California’s decision to join GOARN signals a shift in how U.S. states interact with global health efforts. Traditionally, international health partnerships have been led by national governments, but California’s involvement demonstrates the growing importance of regional actors in addressing global health challenges. By becoming the first state to join the WHO’s disease network, California sets a precedent for other subnational entities to follow.
California’s influential role in public health, paired with its diverse population, positions it as a leader in shaping national and global health dialogues. Joining GOARN further reinforces California’s status as a driving force in health innovation and global collaboration.
Overcoming Challenges in Global Health Collaboration
While California’s participation in GOARN offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges in coordination. The partnership introduces new dynamics between state-level and federal public health agencies. Traditionally, the federal government oversees international health partnerships, meaning California’s role requires alignment with national health priorities and objectives.
The sharing of health data across borders introduces privacy and security concerns. California’s public health agencies will need to manage these aspects carefully to ensure compliance with technical standards and privacy protocols. Ensuring smooth collaboration among different stakeholders is critical to the success of this initiative.
Additionally, sustaining California’s participation in GOARN will require resources for staff, technology, and training. Balancing this new international commitment with the state’s broader public health priorities will be essential to maintaining effective collaboration in the long term.
U.S. Withdrawal from WHO and Global Health Shifts
The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, which took effect on January 22, 2026, has created uncertainty regarding the country’s involvement in global health initiatives. The formal exit follows a year-long process initiated by an executive order in January 2025. This move has raised concerns about the potential impact on global disease surveillance and response efforts, given the U.S.’s historic role within the organization.
California’s decision to join GOARN presents an alternative path for U.S. subnational entities to engage with global health networks. The state’s involvement highlights the adaptability of international networks, such as the WHO, in navigating shifting national priorities. California’s participation may inspire other regions to seek direct involvement in international health collaboration.
Globally, the WHO welcomed California’s participation, acknowledging the critical role diverse partners play in strengthening disease surveillance systems. This partnership emphasizes the need for global cooperation in managing health threats that transcend national borders.
What California’s Global Health Partnership Means for the Future
California’s involvement in GOARN marks a significant step in the state’s commitment to global health collaboration. As the partnership progresses, California will continue to improve its ability to manage health risks by leveraging global resources and expertise. The state’s involvement in the WHO network will help ensure faster, more coordinated responses to health emergencies, benefiting both California residents and the global community.
While the full impact of California’s participation will unfold in the years to come, the decision reflects a proactive approach to public health. With real-time access to global data and support from international experts, California is better equipped to address emerging health threats and contribute to worldwide disease prevention and preparedness efforts.
For California residents, this partnership offers reassurance by strengthening the state’s capacity to respond effectively to future health challenges. As the state continues to lead in public health, monitoring the progress of this collaboration will be vital to its long-term success.
