BUENOS AIRES — The President of Argentina has announced the nation’s plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) due to “significant disagreements” with the global health agency, as stated by a spokesperson on Wednesday.
President Javier Milei’s move mirrors that of his political ally, the former U.S. President Donald Trump, who initiated steps to exit the WHO shortly after taking office on January 21.
This withdrawal by Argentina further disrupts global health collaboration, though the nation was projected to contribute roughly $8 million to the WHO’s estimated budget of $6.9 billion for the years 2024-2025.
According to spokesperson Manuel Adorni, the decision stems from “profound differences in health management,” particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed out that WHO guidelines at that time resulted in what he termed the largest lockdown “in the history of mankind.”
Adorni emphasized that Argentina would not permit an international entity to interfere with its national sovereignty, especially concerning health matters.
It’s important to note that the WHO cannot compel countries to adopt specific health measures, and its recommendations and guidelines are frequently overlooked during health emergencies like COVID-19.
In response to Argentina’s announcement, the WHO stated it was reviewing the situation.
While specific timelines for implementing Milei’s withdrawal decision remain unclear, Adorni argued that the WHO lacks autonomy due to the political pressure exercised by certain nations, although he refrained from naming any particular countries.
The WHO is recognized as the only organization responsible for coordinating global responses to urgent health emergencies, particularly pertaining to emerging diseases and ongoing health threats such as Ebola and AIDS.
Milei has been a vocal critic of the COVID-19 lockdown measures imposed by former President Alberto Fernandez, claiming they negatively impacted the economy and were employed as tools of “repression.” In a statement on social media, he declared, “LONG LIVE FREEDOM,” while denouncing the U.N. agency.
Adorni clarified that Argentina does not currently rely on WHO funding for its health initiatives, asserting that this decision would not undermine the quality of healthcare services in the country. Instead, he claimed it would provide greater flexibility to tailor health policies to Argentina’s specific needs.
Last year, the Milei administration opted not to endorse a pandemic management agreement within the WHO framework, arguing that it could jeopardize national sovereignty.
This announcement regarding the WHO comes just before Milei’s upcoming visit to the United States later this month, which coincides with the Conservative Political Action Conference featuring right-wing leaders in Washington. There has been no confirmation regarding whether Milei plans to attend or meet with Trump during this visit.
