Javier Milei has announced Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO due to disagreements over health policies and political influences. Spokesperson Manuel Adorni stated the need for sovereignty in health matters. The decision aligns with former U.S. President Trump’s similar withdrawal, indicating a trend among nations reassessing their participation in international organizations.
Javier Milei, the President of Argentina, has officially announced the country’s intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). During a press conference, presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni emphasized the decision, citing significant disagreements over health policies and the influence of certain member states on the organization. Adorni declared Argentina’s commitment to maintaining sovereign control over its health matters, stating, “we will not allow an international organization to interfere with our sovereignty.”
The announcement was framed as a response to the pandemic management strategies employed under the previous administration, which resulted in extended lockdowns. Additionally, Milei’s administration intends to adopt policies that are better suited to Argentina’s specific needs, which they believe will lead to improved access to essential resources. This move mirrors the recent actions of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who also sought to withdraw the United States from the WHO.
Since taking office in December 2023, Milei has expressed a clear ideological alignment with Trump, viewing him as a crucial ally. The WHO has publicly lamented the U.S. withdrawal and expressed hopes for a reconsideration before its official end in January 2026, suggesting a growing trend among nations to reassess their commitments to the organization.
The decision made by President Milei comes amid rising skepticism toward international health organizations, particularly in light of their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics of the WHO have raised concerns regarding its perceived partiality and effectiveness. This withdrawal signifies Argentina’s desire to prioritize national interests and response strategies over multilateral agreements, reflecting a broader geopolitical trend towards unilateralism. The implications of such withdrawals could affect global health coordination and resource sharing strategies.
Argentina’s decision to withdraw from the WHO underlines a significant shift in its health policy and governance, emphasizing national sovereignty over international cooperation. This decision follows a larger pattern observable in recent actions by other countries, notably the United States. Such steps could impact global health responses, highlighting the tensions between national interests and collective health governance in an increasingly interconnected world.
Original Source: www.swissinfo.ch
