Buenos Aires – Argentina will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), President Javier Milei’s office announced on Wednesday, citing “deep differences regarding health management” with the global agency.
Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni stated that the decision was influenced by WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and Argentina’s stance on national sovereignty in health policies. “We will not allow an international body to interfere in our sovereignty,” Adorni emphasized.
The move follows a similar decision by the United States, which officially announced its withdrawal from WHO last month under President Donald Trump. Milei, a self-proclaimed “anarcho-capitalist” and vocal Trump supporter, has previously criticized global organizations for what he perceives as excessive influence over national policies.
Since taking office in December 2023, Milei has implemented aggressive austerity measures aimed at eliminating Argentina’s budget deficit, leading to both economic turmoil and a record trade surplus in 2024. His policies have faced criticism for exacerbating poverty, but he maintains that financial discipline is necessary to restore economic stability.
Milei was also the first foreign leader to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate following Trump’s victory in the November U.S. presidential election. Their growing political alignment has drawn international attention, especially as both leaders take strong positions against multilateral institutions.
With Argentina and the U.S. pulling out, WHO faces potential funding challenges, as both nations have historically been key contributors to global health initiatives. The decision marks a significant shift in Argentina’s approach to international cooperation and public health governance.
