In a move reflecting the recent U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, Argentine President Javier Milei has declared plans to exit the global health body, echoing concerns raised by former President Donald Trump regarding its pandemic response during COVID-19. The announcement provokes discussions about future implications for international health governance.
Argentina Follows Trump's Lead, Plans Exit from WHO
Argentina Follows Trump's Lead, Plans Exit from WHO
Argentina's President Javier Milei announces intentions to withdraw from the World Health Organization, citing pandemic management issues.
Former President Donald Trump's recent executive order to begin the U.S. exit from the World Health Organization has inspired Argentina's own departure, as President Javier Milei's administration reveals its intentions to follow suit. Milei's spokesman articulated that the decision stems from "deep differences regarding health management" particularly during the pandemic, underscoring a mutual discontent towards the global health organization's actions.
Argentina's withdrawal aligns with criticisms previously directed at the WHO by the U.S. administration, including concerns about the organization’s response to COVID-19 and perceived Chinese influences within the global health framework. While the U.S. contributes around $950 million annually to the WHO—nearly 15% of its budget—Argentina's financial commitment is considerably smaller, hovering around $8 million per year.
As Milei and Trump maintain a friendly rapport, sharing admiration for one another's governance style, this decision raises concerns about a potential domino effect among like-minded leaders. At a recent news conference, spokesman Manuel Adorni asserted that Argentines would not allow any international body to "interfere with our sovereignty," further illuminating Milei's aim to liberate national policies from global oversight.
Looking ahead, speculation arises about whether Milei's government may pursue additional withdrawals from international treaties, including fears from environmental activists that Argentina might follow the U.S. in renouncing the Paris climate agreement. As the situation unfolds, foreign relations and global health paradigms could shift dramatically depending on Milei's strategic decisions and the actions of other countries influenced by a similar ideology.
Argentina's withdrawal aligns with criticisms previously directed at the WHO by the U.S. administration, including concerns about the organization’s response to COVID-19 and perceived Chinese influences within the global health framework. While the U.S. contributes around $950 million annually to the WHO—nearly 15% of its budget—Argentina's financial commitment is considerably smaller, hovering around $8 million per year.
As Milei and Trump maintain a friendly rapport, sharing admiration for one another's governance style, this decision raises concerns about a potential domino effect among like-minded leaders. At a recent news conference, spokesman Manuel Adorni asserted that Argentines would not allow any international body to "interfere with our sovereignty," further illuminating Milei's aim to liberate national policies from global oversight.
Looking ahead, speculation arises about whether Milei's government may pursue additional withdrawals from international treaties, including fears from environmental activists that Argentina might follow the U.S. in renouncing the Paris climate agreement. As the situation unfolds, foreign relations and global health paradigms could shift dramatically depending on Milei's strategic decisions and the actions of other countries influenced by a similar ideology.
