Argentina has declared its intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar move by former U.S. President Donald Trump last month.

“President Javier Milei has directed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to initiate Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO,” presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni announced during a press briefing on Wednesday.

“We, as Argentinians, will not tolerate foreign organizations infringing upon our sovereignty, especially concerning our healthcare,” Adorni added.

Milei, who views Trump as an ideological counterpart, mirrored the former U.S. leader’s decision made upon his return to the White House in January. Trump’s move drew sharp criticism from public health experts worldwide.

Adorni cited “deep disagreements over health management,” particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the reason behind Argentina’s decision. He criticized the WHO’s influence, claiming it contributed to “the world’s longest lockdown” and reflected “a lack of independence from political pressures exerted by certain states.”

A statement from Argentina’s presidential office further accused the WHO of causing economic harm during the pandemic by “promoting endless quarantines.” It questioned the role of international organizations, stating, “It is urgent for the global community to reconsider why supranational entities, funded by all, fail to meet their original objectives, engage in political agendas, and attempt to override the sovereignty of member nations.”

Similarly, Trump’s executive order on January 20 condemned the WHO for its “mismanagement of the COVID-19 crisis originating from Wuhan, China,” its failure to implement necessary reforms, and its susceptibility to political influence from member states.

In response to Trump’s withdrawal, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed regret, highlighting the mutual benefits the U.S. receives from its involvement with the organization.

Although the WHO operates in Argentina, Adorni clarified that the country does not rely on WHO funding for its healthcare system. “This decision does not result in financial losses or compromise the quality of healthcare services,” he stated. He further claimed the withdrawal would grant Argentina “greater policy flexibility” and “enhanced resource availability,” reaffirming the country’s commitment to health sovereignty.

Founded in 1948, the WHO’s mission is to safeguard global health. Its constitution, endorsed by all UN members at the time, warned that disparities in healthcare development pose a universal threat. Today, the WHO operates in over 150 countries, spearheading efforts for universal health coverage and coordinating responses to global health emergencies, including outbreaks of yellow fever, cholera, and Ebola.

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