BUENOS AIRES — A presidential spokesperson announced Wednesday that Argentine President Javier Milei has directed the country’s withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing significant disagreements with the UN agency.
President Milei’s decision mirrors that of his political ally, U.S. President Donald Trump, who initiated the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO upon resuming office.
Argentina’s departure will further hinder global health collaboration, although its approximate $8 million contribution to the WHO’s estimated $6.9 billion 2024-2025 budget was relatively small.
According to spokesperson Manuel Adorni, Argentina’s decision stems from “substantial differences in health management approaches, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic,” with WHO guidelines contributing to what he called the largest societal shutdown in history.
Adorni emphasized Argentina’s refusal to permit international bodies to infringe on its sovereignty, especially in health matters.
It’s worth noting that the WHO lacks the authority to enforce specific health measures, and its recommendations are frequently disregarded.
The WHO is currently reviewing Argentina’s announcement.
Adorni did not specify a timeline for the withdrawal, and also claimed that the WHO lacks independence due to political influence from unnamed nations.
The WHO is uniquely tasked with coordinating global responses to major health crises, such as outbreaks of new diseases and ongoing threats like Ebola, AIDS, and mpox.
Milei, a vocal critic of the COVID-19 lockdown imposed by former President Alberto Fernandez, argued that it harmed the economy and served as a tool of repression.
“LONG LIVE FREEDOM,” Milei declared on X Wednesday, criticizing the UN agency.
Adorni clarified that Argentina does not receive WHO funding for its health system and that the presidential decision won’t impact the quality of healthcare services.
He added that the move instead grants greater flexibility in implementing policies tailored to Argentina’s specific needs.
Last year, Milei’s administration declined to sign a WHO pandemic management agreement, citing concerns about national sovereignty.
This WHO announcement precedes Milei’s upcoming trip to the U.S. later this month, coinciding with the Conservative Political Action Conference. The spokesperson hasn’t confirmed Milei’s attendance at the conference or a potential meeting with Trump.
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Associated Press writer Maria Cheng in London contributed.