Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the WHO, following the U.S. lead. President Javier Milei cited disagreements over health management during the Covid-19 pandemic as the reason for this withdrawal. The Argentine government aims for increased sovereignty over its health policies without international interference.
Argentina has announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following the precedent set by the United States. The announcement was made by President Javier Milei’s spokesman, who cited significant disagreements concerning the WHO’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. The spokesman emphasized that Argentina does not wish to permit international interference with its sovereignty regarding health management.
The spokesman, Manuel Adorni, criticized the WHO for what he termed the “longest lockdown in the history of humanity” and for a perceived lack of independence from the political influence of certain nations. He claimed that this withdrawal would afford Argentina greater flexibility to tailor health policies to its context, thereby improving resource availability.
In terms of financial contributions, Argentina’s recent membership fees accounted for about 0.11 percent of the WHO’s total budget. Nevertheless, the majority of the WHO’s funding comes from voluntary contributions, which Argentina has not provided in recent years. Adorni noted that Argentina does not receive substantial funding from the WHO, thus making this withdrawal financially inconsequential for the nation.
The Argentine presidency’s statement criticized the WHO for promoting what it described as “endless quarantines without scientific basis,” resulting in significant economic distress during the pandemic. The statement underscored that the stringent measures enacted in response to COVID-19 led to one of the most severe economic crises globally.
President Javier Milei, an admirer of former President Donald Trump, has implemented strict fiscal measures since taking office. His administration aims for a zero budget deficit amidst rampant inflation and economic challenges. Despite causing increased poverty levels, Argentina achieved a record trade surplus in 2024, in part due to reduced imports and spending.
Overall, Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO reflects a broader discontent with the organization’s pandemic response and aligns with similar sentiments expressed by other nations, most notably the United States.
The article discusses Argentina’s recent decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization, following the United States’ earlier exit initiated by former President Donald Trump. The context surrounding this decision includes widespread criticism of the WHO’s management during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly concerning lockdowns and health policies. Additionally, the political alignment between President Javier Milei and Trump underscores a broader ideological shift influencing Argentina’s public health strategies.
In conclusion, Argentina’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization represents a significant stance against international health policies deemed ineffective by its government. This move, driven by advocacy for national sovereignty and flexibility in health management, highlights a growing trend among certain nations to reassess their relationships with international bodies following contentious pandemic responses. The impact of this decision will likely resonate in both health policy and diplomatic contexts.
Original Source: www.thedailymail.net