Argentina Follows Trump’s Example by Quitting the WHO
Argentina has decided to withdraw from the World Health Organization, following the lead of the United States under Trump. The move, led by President Javier Milei, is based on criticisms of the WHO’s pandemic response and aims to enhance national sovereignty. This decision may result in greater isolation for Argentina during health crises and reflects its shift towards austerity and reevaluation of international agreements.
On Wednesday, Argentina announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), following the US lead under former President Donald Trump. Argentine President Javier Milei criticized the WHO’s management during the Covid-19 pandemic, claiming it perpetuated “one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity.” This decision reflects Milei’s larger stance against international interference in national governance and aligns with Trump’s previous critiques of the organization.
Milei’s administration cited “deep differences” in health management as the rationale for leaving, with spokesman Manuel Adorni asserting that it would permit Argentina greater flexibility in policy implementation. The country is keen on avoiding external control over its health decisions, especially after the severe impacts of lockdowns during the pandemic, which resulted in around 130,000 deaths.
Argentina contributed approximately $8.75 million to the WHO’s budget in the last two years, but the vast majority of funds for the organization come from voluntary contributions. Adorni noted that Argentina does not rely on WHO funding, suggesting that the departure will not detrimentally impact its finances.
In recent years, Argentina has distanced itself from WHO initiatives, notably refusing to join a pandemic protocol last year while announcing the decision to withdraw. Experts have indicated that this move could isolate Argentina in future health crises, impeding information exchange and international cooperation.
Since assuming office, Milei has implemented strict austerity measures, including reducing public spending significantly to achieve a budget surplus. However, these measures have led to increased poverty levels. His administration is also reassessing commitments to global climate agreements amid a potential push for a free trade deal with the US, reminiscent of Trump’s actions that favored deregulation and questioned international agreements.
Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO marks a significant shift in its public health strategy, echoing similar sentiments expressed by the Trump administration. President Javier Milei’s ideological alignment with Trump influences his criticism of international organizations, particularly concerning health management amid a crisis. This decision comes after a tough pandemic that exacerbated existing economic challenges for the country, highlighting the intersection of health policy and national sovereignty in Milei’s governance.
Argentina’s departure from the WHO signals a growing trend among nations prioritizing national autonomy over international collaboration, particularly in health governance. This move, shaped by the previous US withdrawal, could leave Argentina more isolated in handling future health crises. The continuation of austerity measures and reassessment of climate commitments indicate a broader change in Argentina’s international relations and domestic policy focus under Milei.
Original Source: www.news.com.au
