Argentina Withdraws from WHO. Share
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Argentina has announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing “deep differences” in health management, particularly regarding the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The announcement, made on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, comes just weeks after former U.S. President Donald Trump initiated a similar withdrawal process for the United States.
President Javier Milei, a self-described “anarcho-capitalist” and admirer of Trump, ordered the withdrawal, with his administration criticizing the WHO’s role in promoting prolonged lockdowns during the pandemic. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni stated, “We Argentinians will not allow an international organization to intrude upon our sovereignty, especially regarding our health.”
The Milei administration argues that the WHO-recommended lockdowns resulted in severe economic consequences for Argentina. The country experienced one of the longest lockdowns globally under the previous administration, which Milei’s government now describes as “one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity.” Argentina withdraws from WHO in a bold move to assert its sovereignty.
Argentina’s decision is rooted in its experience during the pandemic, where it suffered approximately 130,000 deaths and implemented a five-month lockdown in 2020, widely perceived as crippling for an already struggling economy1. The current administration contends that withdrawing from the WHO will provide Argentina with greater flexibility to implement policies tailored to its local context and manage its resources more effectively.
The move aligns Argentina with the United States in criticizing the WHO’s pandemic response. Both nations have accused the organization of mishandling the global health crisis and overstepping its authority7. Argentina’s withdrawal is expected to save the country approximately $8 million annually in membership fees. Indeed, Argentina’s decision to withdraw from WHO is expected to have significant financial implications.
Critics argue that leaving the WHO could isolate Argentina from crucial information-sharing and cooperation networks in the event of future health crises1. However, the Milei administration maintains that the decision will not negatively impact the quality of healthcare in the country.
This withdrawal reflects a broader trend of some nations questioning the role and effectiveness of international organizations in managing global crises. As Argentina Withdraws from WHO and prepares to formalize its exit, the international community watches closely to see how this decision may influence global health governance and cooperation in the future.
