Argentina Withdraws from WHO, Citing Sovereignty Concerns

Buenos Aires – Argentina has announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar move made by former U.S. President Donald Trump.  

Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni confirmed the decision during a press conference on Wednesday, stating that President Javier Milei had instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to end Argentina’s participation in the global health body.  

“We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to interfere in our sovereignty, especially in matters of health,” Adorni declared.  

He cited disagreements over health policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a key reason for the withdrawal. He criticized WHO’s response to the crisis, claiming its approach led to “the longest lockdown in human history” and compromised national independence due to external political influences.  

A statement from the presidential office further accused WHO of causing economic harm by advocating prolonged quarantines. It also questioned the role of supranational organizations, arguing they often engage in international politics instead of fulfilling their intended missions.  

Despite WHO’s presence in the country, Adorni emphasized that Argentina does not receive financial assistance from the organization. “This measure does not result in a loss of funds for the country or impact the quality of healthcare services,” he said. He added that the withdrawal would grant Argentina greater flexibility in shaping its health policies and managing resources.  

CNN has reached out to WHO for a response.  

The move aligns with broader policy shifts in the region that mirror Trump’s stance on global organizations, border security, and trade. Recently, Argentina’s Ministry of National Security announced plans to reinforce the border with Bolivia by constructing a 200-meter fence in Salta province, citing efforts to curb drug trafficking.  

Elsewhere in Latin America, Ecuador has imposed a 27% tariff on Mexican goods to protect its domestic producers, while El Salvador has proposed a controversial deal to imprison convicted criminals deported from the U.S. as a potential revenue source.  

WHO, established in 1948 to coordinate global health efforts, has faced criticism from some governments regarding its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump, whom Milei considers an ideological ally, had previously condemned the organization for its response to the outbreak and accused it of being politically influenced.  

Despite Argentina’s withdrawal, WHO continues its operations in over 150 locations worldwide, focusing on expanding universal health coverage and responding to global health crises.