Argentina Withdraws from WHO Citing Profound Differences in Health Management

Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, has announced plans for the country to exit the World Health Organization. Citing significant disagreements over health management, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis, a presidential spokesperson explained that WHO’s rules and the resulting global shutdown were seen as a major infringement on Argentina’s sovereignty. The administration argues that the agency’s approach during the pandemic led to unprecedented restrictions, which in turn harmed the country’s economic stability and limited national autonomy.

In his pronouncements, President Milei criticized both the approach taken by international bodies and previous domestic policies regarding pandemic management. The spokesperson noted that Argentina has been largely independent in its funding and health management, highlighting that the decision will provide the nation with greater liberty to craft policies suited to its own interests. This step is part of a broader stance against international interventions deemed contrary to the nation’s priorities.

The move comes at a time when cooperation in global health is already under strain, as seen in similar actions by other countries. Although Argentina’s financial contribution to the WHO is relatively modest compared to the organization's overall budget, the decision is symbolic of its commitment to preserving national sovereignty over health policy-making. The WHO has stated that it is reviewing Argentina’s announcement, and further details, including implementation timing, remain to be determined.