Argentina Follows U.S., Withdraws from World Health Organization

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Argentina announced Wednesday it will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar move by the United States last month. The decision marks a significant shift in the South American nation’s approach to global health governance.

“President Javier Milei instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to withdraw Argentina’s participation in the World Health Organization,” presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni said during a news conference. “We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to intervene in our sovereignty, much less in our health.”

The announcement comes weeks after former U.S. President Donald Trump, whom Milei considers a close ally, signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the WHO on his first day back in office on January 20. Both leaders cited concerns over the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its perceived lack of independence from political influence.

Adorni specifically referenced Argentina’s months-long lockdown under the previous leftist government as evidence of the WHO’s mismanagement of health issues. He also criticized the organization for what he called “a lack of independence from the political influence of other states.”

Trump had similarly accused the WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health crises, while also criticizing the organization’s funding structure. The United States has historically been the WHO’s largest contributor, providing about 15% of its budget.

The decision has drawn criticism from public health experts, who warn that withdrawing from the WHO could limit Argentina’s access to global health resources and expertise. The WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating international responses to health emergencies, developing health guidelines, and providing technical assistance to member states.

As of Wednesday, it remains unclear when Argentina’s withdrawal will take effect or how it will affect the country’s participation in ongoing WHO initiatives. The move comes as the WHO continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and prepares for potential future health crises.