By Emmanuel Nduka
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), echoing the United States’ decision to leave the UN agency.
President Javier Milei’s office confirmed the move on Wednesday, attributing it to “profound differences” with the WHO, especially concerning the management of health during the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to a spokesperson for Milei, the decision is grounded in Argentina’s desire to maintain control over its sovereignty and health policies without interference from international bodies.
Heritage Times HT reports that the move is expected to give the country more flexibility in implementing policies tailored to its specific needs, along with ensuring better allocation of resources.
Milei, who describes himself as an “anarcho-capitalist” and is an admirer of former US President Donald Trump, has followed in Trump’s footsteps.
The US, under Trump’s leadership, withdrew from the WHO, citing similar concerns over the organization’s handling of the pandemic.
With the US being the largest contributor to the WHO, its exit leaves the agency facing potential funding shortfalls.
Since taking office in December 2023, Milei has focused on austerity measures, slashing public spending and targeting a zero-deficit budget.
Though these policies have pushed millions into poverty, Argentina also recorded a record trade surplus in 2024, driven by a downturn.
