In a bold political maneuver, Javier Milei, the newly elected president of Argentina, has declared that his administration intends to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). The announcement, articulated by a spokesperson, stems from what the government deems "deep differences regarding health management," particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This decision comes closely on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order to commence the withdrawal process from the WHO, reflecting a growing trend among certain leaderships. Both Milei and Trump have publicly praised one another; Milei referred to Trump’s re-election bid as the "greatest political comeback in history," while Trump has labeled Milei as "my favorite president".
In an official statement, the Argentine presidential office criticized the WHO, stating that it was established in 1948 to manage global health emergencies but failed during the pandemic by promoting lockdowns without scientific evidence. Furthermore, the government claims the organization’s recommendations are politically influenced rather than scientifically based.
Anticipations suggest that Milei will formalize this withdrawal with an executive order in the coming days, a move that could significantly change Argentina's international health relations. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni expressed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding Argentine sovereignty, stating, "We Argentines are not going to allow an international body to interfere with our sovereignty, and even less with our health."
The spokesperson mentioned that exiting the WHO would enable Argentina to implement health policies in line with its national interests and manage its financial resources according to its priorities. Currently, Argentina’s membership in the WHO incurs an annual cost of approximately $10 million.
Milei's criticism of the WHO has intensified since Trump initiated his withdrawal, highlighting a potential ideological alignment between the two leaders. Observers are now speculating whether Milei might also consider pulling Argentina out of other international agreements, including the Paris climate accord. As environmental activists voice concerns over a potential shift in policies, President Milei emphasizes his determination to ensure that no international agreement undermines the freedoms of Argentine citizens.
This decision comes closely on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order to commence the withdrawal process from the WHO, reflecting a growing trend among certain leaderships. Both Milei and Trump have publicly praised one another; Milei referred to Trump’s re-election bid as the "greatest political comeback in history," while Trump has labeled Milei as "my favorite president".
In an official statement, the Argentine presidential office criticized the WHO, stating that it was established in 1948 to manage global health emergencies but failed during the pandemic by promoting lockdowns without scientific evidence. Furthermore, the government claims the organization’s recommendations are politically influenced rather than scientifically based.
Anticipations suggest that Milei will formalize this withdrawal with an executive order in the coming days, a move that could significantly change Argentina's international health relations. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni expressed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding Argentine sovereignty, stating, "We Argentines are not going to allow an international body to interfere with our sovereignty, and even less with our health."
The spokesperson mentioned that exiting the WHO would enable Argentina to implement health policies in line with its national interests and manage its financial resources according to its priorities. Currently, Argentina’s membership in the WHO incurs an annual cost of approximately $10 million.
Milei's criticism of the WHO has intensified since Trump initiated his withdrawal, highlighting a potential ideological alignment between the two leaders. Observers are now speculating whether Milei might also consider pulling Argentina out of other international agreements, including the Paris climate accord. As environmental activists voice concerns over a potential shift in policies, President Milei emphasizes his determination to ensure that no international agreement undermines the freedoms of Argentine citizens.
