Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the WHO, citing dissatisfaction with pandemic management, echoing the U.S. withdrawal led by Trump. The government emphasizes the preservation of sovereignty, economic factors, and flexibility in health policy. Critics warn this decision may exacerbate public health crises amid Milei’s austerity measures, potentially leading to diplomatic isolation.
Argentina has formally announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) due to dissatisfaction with its pandemic management. This decision follows a similar move by the United States, under President Donald Trump. Argentine President Javier Milei, viewing Trump as an ideological ally, has aligned his criticisms of the WHO with those from Washington.
The Argentine government cites “deep differences” concerning health management, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. Spokesman Manuel Adorni criticized the WHO for endorsing prolonged lockdowns, labeling them the “longest lockdown in the history of humanity,” and argued that the organization lacks independence from political influences.
Additionally, Adorni stated that Argentina seeks to preserve its sovereignty by removing external interference in health policies. He claimed this withdrawal will allow the nation to adopt health management strategies more closely aligned with local needs and circumstances, enhancing Argentina’s flexibility in policymaking.
Economically, withdrawal from the WHO will not adversely affect Argentina, as the government noted its contributions totaled $8.75 million over the past two years, with no planned funding from the organization for the future. This financial argument reinforces the notion that the decision does not imply a loss of essential funds for public health.
The decision was partly driven by criticism of the WHO’s policies, particularly regarding lockdowns, which the Argentine government argues led to severe economic downturns. These lockdowns have been described as having caused “one of the greatest economic catastrophes in world history.”
President Milei, who identifies as an “anarcho-capitalist,” has consistently expressed admiration for Trump and took decisive action in line with Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO. He was notably the first foreign leader to visit Trump after his election win, demonstrating their strong ideological connection.
Argentina’s exit from the WHO signifies a shift in its health management philosophy, aiming for more local control. Adorni claims this will facilitate improved allocation of resources and allow Argentina to implement more personalized health policies designed to cater to its unique requirements.
However, critics of Milei’s administration warn that this decision could further undermine Argentina’s already fragile healthcare system. The austerity measures currently in place are contributing to rising poverty levels, creating concerns that withdrawing from the WHO will have detrimental effects on public health.
Finally, this choice to align with the U.S. in distancing from the WHO might lead to diplomatic isolation, as it could harm Argentina’s relationships with nations that continue to support the organization. Such a withdrawal could affect global health initiatives, especially those relying on the contributions of member states.
Argentina’s decision to withdraw from the WHO reflects a critical stance against the organization’s management of global health crises, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. Amid a perception of inadequate responses and interference in national sovereignty, the Argentine government aims to regain control over its health policies. This strategic move parallels the withdrawal by the United States under Trump’s administration, asserting a collective ideological alignment focused on health governance and economic autonomy.
Argentina’s exit from the WHO represents a fundamental alteration in its global health strategy, emphasizing national sovereignty and localized health management. While the government justifies this decision economically and politically, concerns loom regarding potential impacts on public health and international relations. As President Milei continues to advocate those policies associated with Trump, Argentina’s future role in global health frameworks remains uncertain.
Original Source: www.newsx.com
