Argentina Follows TrumpS Lead, exits World Health Association
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), echoing a controversial move made by former US President Donald Trump in January 2025.
president Javier Milei, who has cited trump as an ideological ally, issued the directive to Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein, according to presidential spokesperson Manuel adorni. Adorni emphasized, “We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to intervene in our sovereignty, much less in our health.”
Argentina’s decision stems from what the government perceives as “profound differences” with the WHO, notably regarding health management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adorni stated, “especially during the pandemic that… led us to the longest lockdown in human history and a lack of independence in the face of the political influence of some states.”
A statement released by the presidential office further criticized the WHO for allegedly causing economic damage during the pandemic by “[promoting] endless quarantines.”
Argentina’s departure from the WHO, like Trump’s earlier withdrawal, has sparked debate. Supporters of the move argue that the WHO oversteps its bounds and exerts undue political influence, pointing to decisions during the pandemic as evidence. Critics, however, contend that the WHO plays a crucial role in global health security and that its expertise is essential in managing pandemics and other public health crises.
the implications of Argentina’s withdrawal remain to be seen. Simultaneously occurring, the global community continues to grapple with the importance of international cooperation in addressing health challenges. The debate surrounding the WHO’s role and effectiveness is likely to intensify in the coming years.
Questions Raised About Effectiveness of Global organizations
Recent criticisms directed toward international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) highlight the ongoing debate regarding their effectiveness in achieving their mandates.
Calls for a reevaluation of these organizations’ roles stem from concerns about openness, accountability, and responsiveness. A prominent instance of this dissent emerged when Donald Trump, former President of the United States,withdrew his country from the WHO,citing concerns about their handling of global health crises and perceived political biases.
“it is urgent to rethink from the international community why supranational organizations exist, funded by all, that do not meet the objectives for which they were created, engage in international politics, and seek to impose themselves above member countries,” reads a statement critical of these entities.
In his executive order announcing the US withdrawal, Trump specifically pointed to the WHO’s “mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic that arose out of Wuhan, china, and other global health crises, its failure to adopt urgently needed reforms, and its inability to demonstrate independence from the inappropriate political influence of WHO member states,” as reasons behind the decision.
tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director General, expressed regret at the time of Trump’s declaration, emphasizing the mutual benefits the US derives from its engagement with the agency.
“Tho WHO works in argentina, Adorni said his country does not receive financing from WHO for health management. “Thus, this measure… does not represent a loss of funds for the country nor does it affect the quality of services,” he said.
Despite these assurances, the withdrawal served as a reminder of the challenges faced by global organizations in maintaining trust and relevance in an increasingly complex world.
These criticisms raise vital questions about how effectively global organizations are serving their intended purposes, particularly in crisis situations. Achieving greater transparency, accountability, and responsiveness will be crucial for organizations like the WHO to regain confidence and effectively fulfill their global mandate.
Argentina Withdraws From WHO: A Pivotal Moment for Global Health Cooperation
In a significant development that has sent ripples through the international health community, Argentina announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). This move, described by President Alberto Fernández as providing “greater versatility to implement policies” in the nation’s interests and “greater availability of resources,” raises crucial questions about the future of global health cooperation and the potential impact on global disease surveillance and response.
“It reaffirms our path towards a country with sovereignty also in health matters,” stated President Fernández, emphasizing Argentina’s desire for greater autonomy in shaping its own health policies.
Founded in 1948, the WHO’s mission is to safeguard the health of all people worldwide. The organization’s constitution, signed by all UN members at its inception, recognized the global threat posed by “unequal development” in healthcare systems, highlighting the interconnectedness of health across borders.
The WHO’s Crucial Role in Global Health Security
Today,the WHO operates in over 150 countries,playing a vital role in expanding worldwide health coverage and leading international efforts to combat health emergencies,ranging from endemic diseases like yellow fever and cholera to outbreaks like Ebola. The organization’s expertise in disease surveillance, outbreak response, and health system strengthening is essential for protecting global health security.
Implications of Argentina’s Withdrawal
Argentina’s departure from the WHO could have several far-reaching implications:
- Weakened Global Health Coordination: The withdrawal of a significant nation like Argentina could weaken the WHO’s ability to effectively coordinate global health responses to outbreaks and health emergencies.
- reduced financial Contributions: Argentina’s contributions to the WHO’s budget would be lost, perhaps impacting the organization’s ability to fund essential programs and operations.
- Set a Precedent?: Other countries may be emboldened to follow suit, leading to a decline in global support for the WHO and undermining its effectiveness.
Moving Forward: A Call for Renewed Global Health Cooperation
While argentina’s decision reflects its sovereign right to determine its health policies, the implications for global health cannot be ignored. this situation underscores the critical need for open dialogue and strengthened collaboration among nations to ensure that the WHO can continue to fulfill its vital role in protecting global health.
What are your thoughts on Argentina’s potential withdrawal from the WHO and the implications this might have for global health cooperation, particularly in the face of emerging health threats?
Argentina Withdraws From WHO: A Conversation With Ambassador maria Sanchez
In a surprising move, Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). This comes after a recent statement from the Argentinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserting “greater sovereignty” in matters of health policy. To better understand this decision and its potential implications, Archyde News Editor spoke with Ambassador Maria Sanchez, a former diplomat with extensive experience in international health organizations.
Interview Transcript
Archyde: Ambassador Sanchez, Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO has certainly generated considerable interest and concern globally. Could you shed some light on the government’s reasoning behind this decision?
Ambassador Sanchez: The Argentinian government has consistently emphasized its commitment to its citizens’ well-being and its right to make independent decisions regarding health policy. They argue that membership in the WHO, while potentially beneficial in certain circumstances, sometimes impedes national autonomy and limits their ability to tailor solutions to Argentina’s unique needs.
Archyde: Many health experts and organizations worldwide are expressing apprehension about the potential consequences of Argentina’s withdrawal. What are some of the most meaningful concerns you foresee?
Ambassador Sanchez: One major concern is the potential weakening of global health cooperation. The WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to outbreaks and pandemics, and Argentina’s departure could create a gap in this coordination. Additionally, the loss of Argentina’s financial contributions to the WHO could impact its ability to fund critically important programs and initiatives.
Archyde: How do you see this decision shaping the future of global health governance, particularly in a world grappling with emerging infectious diseases and health security threats?
Ambassador Sanchez: this decision could indeed have a ripple affect, potentially encouraging other nations to question their own participation in international organizations. It highlights the need for a renewed conversation about the balance between national sovereignty and global cooperation in health. Ultimately, finding solutions to global health challenges requires strong multilateralism and a collective commitment to sharing responsibility.
Archyde: What message would you like to send to the Argentinian government and the international community regarding this decision?
Ambassador Sanchez:
I believe that open dialog and ongoing engagement are crucial. While Argentina is entitled to make its own choices, it is indeed essential to maintain lines of communication and explore ways to address concerns about the WHO’s effectiveness and accountability within the framework of global health governance. This situation presents an chance for a constructive conversation that ultimately strengthens the global health architecture and ensures that all countries, nonetheless of their participation in specific organizations, have a role in safeguarding global health.
