Argentina is planning to withdraw from the World Health Organization, citing concerns over national sovereignty and dissatisfaction with the WHO’s handling of health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision is influenced by similar actions from the United States under Donald Trump and reflects a growing desire for independence in health policy and management.
Argentina plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), reflecting a similar decision made by former US President Donald Trump. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni stated that President Javier Milei directed the foreign minister to initiate the withdrawal, emphasizing national sovereignty over health management. Adorni asserted, “We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to intervene in our sovereignty, much less in our health.” This step indicates a growing sentiment against external influence in national policy.
The decision is attributed to Argentina’s significant discontent with the WHO’s pandemic response, particularly the lengthy lockdowns during COVID-19. Adorni pointed out the country’s “profound differences regarding health management” with the organization and criticized WHO’s influence as compromising their independence. A subsequent statement from the presidency claimed WHO’s approach economically damaged Argentina by endorsing “endless quarantines” during the pandemic.
In making this decision, Argentina emphasizes sovereignty and independence in health matters. Adorni noted that since the country does not receive WHO funding for health management, this withdrawal will not negatively impact healthcare quality. Instead, it is seen as a step towards allowing more policymaking flexibility and resource availability suited to Argentina’s needs.
Founded in 1948, the WHO aims to protect global health, addressing unequal health system development as a collective concern. The organization’s mission includes fostering cooperation across nations to improve health outcomes. However, with Argentina’s withdrawal, this relationship faces challenges, highlighting broader tensions in international health cooperation.
Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO mirrors a trend where countries reassess international partnerships in health, often motivated by political ideologies and domestic policy frustrations. The decision coincides with the former US administration’s similar actions, demonstrating a shift towards emphasizing national sovereignty over global health mandates. Such moves highlight a growing skepticism toward international organizations’ efficacy and their alignment with member states’ priorities.
In conclusion, Argentina’s planned exit from the WHO signifies a decisive turn towards prioritizing national sovereignty and personalized health management. The concerns raised about WHO’s handling of the pandemic and economic impacts echo a larger sentiment in some countries favoring reduced international oversight. This development could reshape future collaborations in global health, as nations evaluate the balance between international cooperation and sovereignty.
Original Source: von.gov.ng
