Argentina will exit the WHO, mirroring the U.S. withdrawal, citing disagreements over health management during the COVID-19 pandemic. President Javier Milei’s administration criticizes WHO for political influence and lack of scientific backing. The move aims to enhance national sovereignty and reduce annual costs associated with WHO membership. Further exits from other international treaties may also be considered as Milei’s administration pursues a more autonomous agenda.
Argentina is set to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) following the lead of the United States. President Javier Milei has instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to commence the withdrawal process, citing significant disagreements over health management, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. An executive order for this action is expected to be signed soon.
During a news conference, spokesperson Manuel Adorni highlighted the government’s stance, asserting, “We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to intervene in our sovereignty, much less in our health.” Milei’s far-right libertarian administration is closely aligned with former U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously cut ties with the WHO.
The WHO, established to coordinate global health efforts since 1948, faced criticisms during the pandemic, suggesting its approaches lacked scientific backing. According to Milei’s office, the WHO is viewed as politically influenced, and the administration believes exiting the organization will allow Argentina to prioritize its own interests more effectively.
Reports indicate that Argentina pays approximately $10 million annually for its WHO membership, and officials advocate for the greater flexibility that withdrawal would provide. There are also considerations for potentially exiting other international agreements, such as the Paris climate accord, with a commitment to safeguard national freedoms.
This move reflects a broader trend of skepticism towards international organizations among certain governments globally. As they reassess their participation in multilateral agreements, the impact on global cooperation and public health responses remains to be seen.
The decision of Argentina to exit the WHO comes in the context of increased scrutiny of international organizations’ effectiveness during health crises. The original withdrawal of the United States under Trump highlighted dissatisfaction with WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, a sentiment echoed by various leaders. Milei’s administration emphasizes national sovereignty and political independence, seeking to align with populist movements that prioritize internal governance over global institutional affiliations.
Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO signifies a shift toward national sovereignty over international health governance, influenced by political alliances and past grievances related to health management during the pandemic. As countries reevaluate their roles in global organizations, the implications for international cooperation and public health policies remain uncertain. Milei’s government is likely to continue favoring policies that enhance national autonomy in decision-making.
Original Source: www.upi.com
