Argentina has announced its intention to leave the World Health Organization (WHO), citing ideological disparities with the global health body. The decision was made public by a spokesperson for President Javier Milei on Wednesday.
Milei’s choice aligns with that of his counterpart, former U.S. President Donald Trump, who initiated the U.S. withdrawal from WHO via an executive order shortly after returning to office on January 21.
The departure of another nation will likely worsen challenges in international health cooperation, despite Argentina’s relatively modest financial contribution to WHO—approximately $8 million out of a projected $6.9 billion budget for 2024-2025.
According to Manuel Adorni, spokesperson for President Milei, Argentina’s withdrawal stems from “profound differences in health management,” particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He emphasised that WHO guidelines led to unprecedented global shutdowns and highlighted Argentina’s stance against allowing any international entity to infringe upon its sovereignty or dictate its health policies.
“Argentina will not allow an international organisation to intervene in its sovereignty ‘and much less in our health,'” he added.
The WHO operates without legal authority over member states’ decisions but provides critical research and recommendations that aims to build global collaboration during public health crises like pandemics.