Argentina’s government, under President Javier Milei, has announced plans to withdraw from the WHO, reflecting a stance on national sovereignty and dissatisfaction with international health governance. This decision follows similar actions by the US and highlights the administration’s commitment to restructuring health policies without compromising local healthcare standards.
Argentine officials, led by Presidential Spokesman Manuel Adorni, announced that Argentina would withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision mirrors actions previously taken by former US President Donald Trump and reflects President Javier Milei’s desire to prioritize national sovereignty over international health governance. The WHO’s fiscal commitment to Argentina amounted to approximately $10 million annually, a point of contention for the current administration.
During a press briefing, Adorni clarified that President Milei instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to commence this withdrawal, citing “profound differences” with the WHO’s management, especially highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic. He condemned the prior administration, led by Alberto Fernández, for its handling of the health crisis that resulted in extended lockdowns.
Additionally, Adorni pointed out concerns over political independence regarding international organizations’ involvement in national health matters. He assured the public that this exit would not compromise health services or lead to financial losses, as it allows for more tailored policy-making to local needs in Argentina.
Health Minister Mario Lugones confirmed via social media that the withdrawal process is underway, asserting that this does not equate to leaving the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO). The PAHO’s funding mechanisms for technical cooperation are separate from WHO contributions, maintaining essential health project support in the region.
The WHO has acknowledged the impact of the US withdrawal on its financial situation, raising alarms among its staff. This context aligns with Milei’s administration’s recent budget cuts within health sectors, with a focus on restructuring to avoid inefficient spending and ensuring better allocation of resources.
Milei’s administration detailed plans not to renew certain health contracts, particularly in HIV and Vaccines, identifying past expenditures as wasteful. Notably, it was reported that from 2021-2023, $12.3 million was wasted on flu vaccination programs, leading to an emphasis on a new strategic approach to public health funding and resource management.
The withdrawal of Argentina from the WHO marks a significant shift in health policy, influenced by President Javier Milei’s administration. This decision reflects a growing trend among governments reassessing their commitments to global health organizations, sparked by dissatisfaction with the effectiveness and influence of these bodies during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Through these actions, Argentina aims to reclaim sovereignty over its health policies, underlining a critique of previous administrations’ approaches to international partnerships.
Argentina’s decision to exit the WHO is anchored in a desire to enhance national sovereignty and address perceived mismanagement during the pandemic. The administration aims to better align health policies with local needs, while ensuring the continuity of support from PAHO. By restructuring health management contracts, Argentina seeks to prevent wasteful spending and establish a more efficient health service structure moving forward.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
