After US, now Argentina withdraws from WHO
As of early February 2025, two countries have declared their intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO): the United States and Argentina.
Argentina has declared it will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar move by the United States. The decision was announced on Wednesday by a presidential spokesperson.
Reasoning Argentina’s President Javier Milei ordered the withdrawal due to “deep differences” with the WHO regarding its management of health issues, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Milei criticized the organization’s guidance on physical distancing during the pandemic. Argentina’s spokesperson also cited a “lack of independence from the political influence of other states”. The presidential office stated that the WHO had “promoted endless quarantines without scientific basis”.
Echoing Trump Milei’s decision mirrors that of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who also initiated the withdrawal of the United States from the WHO. Both leaders have criticized the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Milei considers Trump an ideological ally.
Sovereignty Argentina stated it would not permit an international body to infringe upon its sovereignty, especially concerning health. Argentina believes that the withdrawal would grant greater flexibility to implement policies aligned with its interests and enhance the availability of resources.
Financial Implications Argentina contributed approximately $8.75 million in membership fees to the WHO across 2022 and 2023, which is 0.11 percent of the total budget. Argentina does not receive funding from the WHO for health management.
Milei’s Perspective Milei, who identifies as an “anarcho-capitalist,” has been critical of the WHO. He was elected in 2023 and has advocated for reductions in government spending.
