Argentina has decided to withdraw from the World Health Organization, citing concerns over its management of the COVID-19 pandemic. This move mirrors the earlier exit of the United States under Trump, advocating for national sovereignty and localized health policy. The government asserts that this decision will not impact funding as Argentina has not received WHO financial support in recent years.
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), mirroring the United States’ earlier exit. This decision, articulated by President Javier Milei’s spokesman, Manuel Adorni, cites substantial disagreements over the WHO’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic as the primary motivation. Adorni stated that Argentina seeks to safeguard its sovereignty from international interference, emphasizing the need for localized policy flexibility and resource management.
The motivations behind Argentina’s exit include critiques of the WHO’s pandemic response, which the Argentine government deemed as promoting “endless quarantines without scientific basis.” The government claims that this approach led to severe economic downturns during the pandemic. As a past contributor of approximately $8.75 million to the WHO for the years 2022 and 2023, Argentina’s officials noted that its departure would not financially burden the nation, as it has not received any WHO funding nor made voluntary contributions in recent years.
Milei, an ardent follower of former President Trump, had similarly criticized the WHO’s pandemic handling. The Argentine president aligns with Trump’s disdain for the organization, marked by Trump’s immediate withdrawal order on his inauguration day. Since stepping into power, Milei has embarked on strict austerity measures which have transitioned the country towards a notable trade surplus while simultaneously pushing millions deeper into poverty.
The recent decision by Argentina to withdraw from the World Health Organization follows the United States’ exit under President Trump, showcasing a significant shift in Latin America’s approach to international health policy. This move stems from broader criticisms regarding the WHO’s pandemic strategies that many nations felt were detrimental, ultimately influencing domestic governance and international relations. Argentina’s current government, under President Javier Milei, is leaning heavily on a platform of economic austerity and sovereignty that minimizes foreign influence in national health matters.
Argentina’s decision to leave the WHO underscores its government’s commitment to asserting national sovereignty over its health policies amidst criticism of the international health agency’s pandemic response. This move aligns with similar actions taken by the United States and reflects a wider trend among some nations to reassess their relationships with international organizations. As Argentina navigates post-pandemic recovery, the long-term implications of this withdrawal on health outcomes and economic policies remain to be fully evaluated.
Original Source: www.thedailymail.net
