Argentina has announced plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following the United States’ recent decision to exit the global health body.
The move comes after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on January 20, formally initiating America’s withdrawal. Trump, a close ally of Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei, criticized the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises, accusing the organization of mismanagement and imposing unfair financial burdens on the U.S., its largest contributor.
Following suit, President Milei has reportedly instructed his government to begin Argentina’s withdrawal process, citing similar concerns over the WHO’s role in global health governance. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni defended the decision, asserting that Argentina would not allow international bodies to infringe on its sovereignty, particularly in matters of public health. He also condemned the WHO’s pandemic policies, calling them responsible for the "largest shutdown in the history of mankind."
However, critics warn that leaving the WHO could jeopardize Argentina’s access to crucial medical funding and resources. Legal experts also argue that such a decision requires congressional approval, which could lead to potential legal battles.
The withdrawal process is expected to take one year from the formal notification date, during which Argentina will continue meeting its financial commitments to the WHO.
