In a significant political move, the Argentine government under President Javier Milei announced plans to exit the World Health Organization (WHO), drawing parallels to former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent withdrawal from the global health agency. The decision, as articulated by a presidential spokesperson, stems from serious dissatisfaction with the WHO's handling of health policies, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The spokesman described the WHO's response as ineffective, arguing that it favored prolonged lockdowns without scientific justification. The Trump-Milei relationship strengthens this development, with Milei having been the first foreign leader to meet Trump after his November election. Both leaders have openly admired each other, with Milei calling Trump's return to politics a remarkable achievement.
In a forthcoming executive order, Milei is expected to initiate the process of pulling Argentina from the WHO, which he argues has encroached on national sovereignty and health governance. The Argentine government stated that exiting the organization would allow for more autonomy in implementing health policies tailored to local needs, instead of adhering to what they view as politically influenced guidelines from the WHO.
The financial implications are also noteworthy; Argentina reportedly spends about $10 million annually on WHO membership. As speculation rises, environmental activists worry that Milei may also pursue similar exits from other international agreements like the Paris climate accords, as he prioritizes national freedom over external affiliations.
With a commitment to empowering Argentina's autonomy, Milei indicates a willingness to reevaluate any connections with bodies that might compromise the nation’s freedom, showcasing a decisive shift in Argentina's international health policy stance.
The spokesman described the WHO's response as ineffective, arguing that it favored prolonged lockdowns without scientific justification. The Trump-Milei relationship strengthens this development, with Milei having been the first foreign leader to meet Trump after his November election. Both leaders have openly admired each other, with Milei calling Trump's return to politics a remarkable achievement.
In a forthcoming executive order, Milei is expected to initiate the process of pulling Argentina from the WHO, which he argues has encroached on national sovereignty and health governance. The Argentine government stated that exiting the organization would allow for more autonomy in implementing health policies tailored to local needs, instead of adhering to what they view as politically influenced guidelines from the WHO.
The financial implications are also noteworthy; Argentina reportedly spends about $10 million annually on WHO membership. As speculation rises, environmental activists worry that Milei may also pursue similar exits from other international agreements like the Paris climate accords, as he prioritizes national freedom over external affiliations.
With a commitment to empowering Argentina's autonomy, Milei indicates a willingness to reevaluate any connections with bodies that might compromise the nation’s freedom, showcasing a decisive shift in Argentina's international health policy stance.
