Argentina will exit the WHO as part of President Javier Milei’s agenda to reduce ties with international bodies deemed ideologically misaligned. The decision is driven by criticism of the WHO’s pandemic policies and financial considerations. This action is reminiscent of former U.S. President Trump’s withdrawal from the organization and fits within a broader trend of skepticism towards international institutions by right-wing leaders.
Argentina plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), a decision announced by presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni on February 5. This move is part of President Javier Milei’s strategy to distance the country from international organizations that his administration perceives as ideologically conflicting with its agenda, particularly over “deep differences” related to pandemic management. Adorni criticized the WHO’s handling of the pandemic during the previous administration, referring to it as “the longest lockdown in the history of humanity.”
The announcement parallels former President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO last month, indicating that Milei’s right-wing government may pursue a broader departure from various international institutions viewed as “strongholds of socialist ideas.” Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein will lead the examination of the repercussions of Argentina’s exit from these organizations. Adorni claims that WHO membership incurs costs of about $10 million each year, in addition to salaries and travel expenses.
The WHO faces budgetary constraints following the recent US withdrawal, with its Director-General proposing a budget reduction from $7.47 billion to approximately $7.05 billion for 2026-2027. The United States previously supplied more than 10% of the WHO’s funding. Moreover, it has been reported that WHO Director-General Tedros sought meetings with Milei but was unsuccessful, highlighting a lack of cooperation between the new Argentine administration and the global health body.
Argentinian officials argue that exiting the WHO could enhance the country’s ability to implement policies that align with national interests and safeguard its sovereignty from international interference. There are also discussions regarding withdrawal from other global accords, such as the Paris climate agreement, reflecting Milei’s ideological stance on international collaboration. Notably, he characterized COVID-19 lockdowns as a “crime against humanity” in his 2020 book, “Pandemonics.” His views on climate change have also drawn criticism from various quarters, as he aligns himself with right-wing arguments that question the legitimacy of scientific concerns about global warming.
Previously, Argentina had refrained from signing the WHO’s pandemic protocol in July 2023, demonstrating its reluctance to engage in multilateral agreements. The WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating health responses to global threats, including diseases like monkeypox, Ebola, and polio, and assists developing nations with vaccines and treatments.
The decision by Argentina’s government to withdraw from the WHO is indicative of a broader trend of skepticism toward international institutions, particularly among right-leaning political figures. The administration of President Milei seeks to reclaim national sovereignty and control over public health policies, reflecting a growing movement against global governance structures. This withdrawal is significant given the WHO’s role in managing health crises worldwide and its importance in supplying critical health resources to nations.
Argentina’s planned exit from the WHO underscores a movement towards nationalistic policies that prioritize autonomous decision-making over international cooperation. This decision aligns with President Milei’s broader agenda to challenge perceived socialist influences in global organizations. As Argentina contemplates further withdrawals from various international agreements, the potential impact on global health governance and other collaborative efforts remains to be seen.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
