Argentina's President Announces Withdrawal from WHO

Argentina's President Announces Withdrawal from WHO

Buenos Aires: Argentina's President Javier Milei announced on Wednesday that the country will be withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO). President Milei stated that this decision was made based on "deep differences," particularly regarding WHO's management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Milei's decision is similar to that of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who initiated the process of withdrawing the United States from WHO in January 2021 upon returning to office. Argentina's decision may create further rifts in global health cooperation with the WHO, though Argentina's contribution to the WHO’s $6.9 billion 2024-2025 budget was just $8 million.

Argentina's government spokesperson, Manuel Adorni, said that the WHO guidelines and instructions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, were harmful to Argentina and led to the "largest lockdown in world history." He also emphasized that Argentina would never allow any international organization to interfere in its sovereignty and health system.

In response, the WHO stated that it would review Argentina's decision but noted that it does not have the authority to manage health systems of countries. However, Adorni remarked that the WHO is not independent due to the political influence of certain countries.

Milei has been a vocal critic of the lockdown imposed by former President Alberto Fernández during the pandemic, claiming that it harmed the economy and that the government used it as a "mechanism of resistance."

Additionally, Adorni confirmed that Argentina does not receive financial aid from the WHO, and this decision will not impact the quality of the country’s health services. He further stated that the decision would provide Argentina with more flexibility to implement health policies based on national interests.

Last year, Milei's government refused to sign the WHO's health pandemic management agreement, citing concerns that it could affect Argentina's sovereignty.

This announcement comes ahead of Milei's upcoming visit to the United States next month, where he will participate in the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). It is uncertain whether any meetings with Trump are scheduled, as Adorni did not provide any details on potential talks.