Argentina has decided to exit the WHO, citing concerns over the organization’s pandemic management. This move follows the U.S. withdrawal and reflects President Milei’s desire for greater control over national health policies. Argentina contributed a small percentage to the WHO budget, and the decision aims to enhance local policy flexibility.
On February 6th, 2025, Argentina announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), aligning with the United States’ previous exit led by former President Trump. The Argentine government cited significant concerns regarding the WHO’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed a desire to maintain national sovereignty over health decisions. Spokesman Manuel Adorni emphasized the need for greater flexibility in local health policy implementation and resource allocation.
The decision to leave the WHO mirrors a trend initiated by the Trump administration, which criticized the agency’s response to the global pandemic. Argentina’s new administration under President Javier Milei is guided by his ideological allegiance to Trump, leading to this significant policy move. The withdrawal raises concerns over Argentina’s global health commitments and could impact future collaborations and funding with the WHO.
Argentina’s exit from the WHO reflects a growing trend of national governments prioritizing sovereignty over international health guidelines, significantly influenced by the U.S. withdrawal. This raises questions about the future of global health cooperation and emphasizes the complexity in balancing local and international health policy management. With reduced contributions, the impact on WHO resources and operations may be significant.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
