Argentina announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization, citing grievances over its pandemic management, much like Donald Trump’s United States. President Javier Milei criticized the WHO’s influence on national sovereignty and emphasized the need for flexible local policies. The decision reflects a shift towards isolation in international health cooperation and raises questions regarding adherence to climate agreements.
Argentina announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday, following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s lead. The government’s decision stems from dissatisfaction with the WHO’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, with President Javier Milei criticizing it as part of a dubious social control effort. He described lockdowns as “one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity,” asserting that the WHO failed to respect Argentina’s sovereignty.
This announcement comes just two weeks after Trump, admired by Milei, confirmed the U.S. exit from the WHO. Argentina’s spokesperson highlighted the disparities in health management, particularly during the pandemic, pointing out that the WHO’s influence hinders local policy flexibility. This decision reflects a desire to prioritize national sovereignty over international health governance.
Argentina dealt harshly with the pandemic, experiencing around 130,000 deaths and implementing a five-month lockdown under President Alberto Fernandez, which many viewed as economically restrictive. As President Milei continues to promote an anti-lockdown stance, officials argue that withdrawal from the WHO allows better resource allocation and policy adaptation to local contexts.
Officials clarified that Argentina’s financial contributions to the WHO were minimal, totaling around $8.75 million over 2022 and 2023, constituting only 0.11 percent of the organization’s budget. The majority of the WHO’s funding comes from voluntary contributions, and Argentina had not contributed significantly in recent years.
Experts caution that this departure could isolate Argentina from international cooperation and resource-sharing in future health crises, leading to challenges in disease management. The withdrawal also raises concerns about the country’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement, as Milei’s administration is reconsidering its stance on climate issues in alignment with its desire for closer ties with the United States.
The article discusses Argentina’s decision to leave the World Health Organization (WHO), which represents a significant shift in the country’s health policy and international relations. This move is seen as a reaction to the mismanagement perceived by local authorities during the Covid-19 pandemic. The decision mirrors former U.S. President Donald Trump’s earlier withdrawal from the organization, hinting at an ideological alignment between Milei’s administration and Trump.
In conclusion, Argentina’s exit from the WHO highlights a growing trend of prioritizing national sovereignty over international cooperation in health policy. President Javier Milei’s administration emphasizes flexibility in governance while reacting to pandemic management criticisms. The country faces potential isolation in global health matters and uncertain adherence to international climate commitments, suggesting a broader shift in its diplomatic orientation.
Original Source: www.sanfordherald.com
