Argentina has decided to withdraw from the WHO, paralleling the U.S. withdrawal initiated by Trump. The decision, rooted in disagreements over health management during the pandemic, emphasizes the want for autonomy in health affairs. Officials argue that WHO’s actions have negatively affected Argentina’s economy and health sovereignty.
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar move by U.S. President Donald Trump last month. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni stated that President Javier Milei has instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to execute this decision. Adorni emphasized that Argentinians will not allow international organizations to interfere with their sovereignty or health policies.
Milei’s administration aligns ideologically with Trump, who announced the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO on his first day back as president in January, receiving backlash from numerous public health experts. According to Adorni, Argentina’s decision stems from significant disagreements with WHO regarding health management during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw Argentina endure the longest lockdown in history due to political influences.
A statement from the presidential office asserted that WHO’s actions during the pandemic, particularly promoting extended quarantines, resulted in economic harm for Argentina. The statement called for a reevaluation of the role of such supranational organizations, questioning their effectiveness and political interference in member countries’ affairs.
Trump had criticized the United Nations health agency for its handling of the pandemic and called for necessary reforms. WHO’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed regret over Trump’s decision, noting the benefits the U.S. gains from participating in WHO’s efforts.
Despite WHO’s involvement, Adorni remarked that Argentina does not receive WHO funding for health management, indicating that the withdrawal would not compromise local health services. He asserted that this action would enhance Argentina’s ability to implement health policies that align with national interests and improve resource availability.
Founded in 1948, WHO aims to safeguard global health and address disparities in health systems across nations. The agency operates in more than 150 regions, leading initiatives for universal health coverage and managing responses to various health emergencies, such as yellow fever and cholera.
The article discusses Argentina’s decision to exit the World Health Organization, reflecting actions taken by the U.S. government led by President Trump. This decision raises questions about national sovereignty concerning health management and critiques the effectiveness of international organizations during global health crises. The background encapsulates the ideological alignment between Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, both of whom criticize WHO’s influence and handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Argentina’s exit from the WHO parallels the U.S. withdrawal, signaling a trend among certain governments prioritizing national sovereignty over international health guidelines. The Argentine administration’s criticism of WHO regarding its pandemic response and health policies showcases the complex relationship between national decisions and global health governance. As countries navigate their health management strategies, the effectiveness of organizations like WHO may come under further scrutiny.
Original Source: www.applevalleynewsnow.com
