Argentina follows US, exits WHO over ‘Deep Differences’

Argentina decided to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday, following the US’s lead. President Javier Milei instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to sever ties with the global health body. This move comes after Milei, a vocal Trump ally, expressed dissatisfaction with the WHO’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic. He criticized the organization for its role in what he called the “largest social-control experiment in history.”

Milei’s administration cited “deep differences” with the WHO, particularly regarding its handling of health issues and the COVID-19 crisis. Argentina’s previous government imposed an extended lockdown, which Milei argued the WHO supported. Critics of the organization also raised concerns about its independence, alleging political influence from powerful states. This mirrors former President Donald Trump’s criticism of the WHO, which he accused of mishandling the pandemic and demanding “unfairly onerous” payments from the US.

Despite the announcement, experts say Milei’s decision lacks legal force. According to Juan Gabriel Tokatlian, an international relations professor, withdrawing from the WHO requires congressional approval because it is part of national law. This legal hurdle could delay or prevent Argentina’s exit from the organization.

Milei’s move is seen as part of a broader strategy to align Argentina with Trump’s policies. He has already announced plans to leave the Paris Agreement and build a border fence with Bolivia. However, observers warn that Argentina might face significant risks by closely following Trump’s foreign policy. Tokatlian questioned whether aligning with Washington would benefit Argentina, citing Trump’s unpredictable actions, such as imposing tariffs on Argentine steel and aluminium during his first term.

Many fear the WHO exit, combined with Milei’s austerity measures, will hurt public healthcare in Argentina. His government has already cut healthcare funding and laid off 1,400 employees in the health ministry. Experts from NGOs like Soberanía Sanitaria worry that the move could restrict Argentina’s access to essential medical supplies and technologies. This concern is compounded by cuts to vaccine programs and disease prevention, which have already raised alarms among healthcare workers in the country.

The decision to exit the WHO is still unfolding, and its consequences for Argentina’s healthcare system remain unclear. However, Milei’s approach to both foreign policy and healthcare reform is drawing increasing scrutiny. Critics argue that his policies may not serve the best interests of the country and its vulnerable populations.