Argentina has announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following in the footsteps of the United States. This announcement was made by Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni during a news conference on Wednesday. The move mirrors a similar decision by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who declared the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO on his first day back in the White House in January.
The exact date for Argentina's withdrawal remains unspecified, and the reasons behind this significant decision were not disclosed. However, Adorni conveyed President Javier Milei's directive to Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein, stating:
"President (Javier) Milei instructed (foreign minister) Gerardo Werthein to withdraw Argentina’s participation in the World Health Organization." – Manuel Adorni
Adorni emphasized Argentina's stance on sovereignty, adding:
"We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to intervene in our sovereignty, much less in our health." – Manuel Adorni
The decision to withdraw from the WHO has sparked concern among public health experts globally. The organization's role as a key player in combating pandemics and health crises is well recognized, and the withdrawal of major contributors like the United States has already raised questions about its funding and credibility. The impact of these withdrawals on global health efforts and leadership is still unfolding.
For the United States, stepping away from the WHO might mean losing access to critical health information and resources that are vital during health emergencies. This, coupled with potential implications for its international relationships, underscores the complexity of its decision. The WHO has been instrumental for the U.S., particularly in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Similarly, Argentina's decision may reflect national health challenges and priorities that are currently unclear. As both nations exit the organization, this could lead to a power vacuum in global health leadership, potentially affecting collaborative efforts to address worldwide health issues.
