Argentina Exits WHO, Mirroring US in Controversial Policy Shift

Argentina has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a major change in its approach to global health cooperation and echoing a similar move made earlier by the United States.

The decision was confirmed on March 17 by Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno, a year after Argentina formally notified the United Nations of its plan to exit the global health body.

The move reflects the position of President Javier Milei’s government, which has been openly critical of the WHO, especially over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Milei has argued that some of the organisation’s recommendations — including lockdowns and vaccination campaigns — interfered with national decision-making and placed too much pressure on countries.

• Argentina exits WHO, following US in global health shift
• Milei government criticises WHO, opts for regional cooperation
• Move raises concerns over global health coordination

In his statement, Quirno said Argentina would still work with other countries on health matters but would now rely more on direct partnerships and regional cooperation instead of global institutions. According to him, this approach will give Argentina greater control over its own public health policies.

Argentina’s decision closely follows the earlier withdrawal by the United States under former President Donald Trump, highlighting a broader trend of skepticism toward international organisations. Both governments have expressed concerns that the WHO has gone beyond its advisory role and may be influenced by political considerations rather than purely scientific guidance.

Even after leaving the WHO, Argentina is expected to remain connected to international health efforts through regional organisations such as the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). These partnerships will continue to support access to vaccines and shared public health strategies across the Americas.

However, experts warn that stepping away from the WHO could reduce Argentina’s role in global health discussions and limit its involvement in coordinated responses to future health emergencies. Critics also say the move could weaken global cooperation at a time when international coordination is crucial.

Also Read: US Counterterrorism Chief Joe Kent Resigns Over Iran War Dispute

Argentina’s exit highlights the ongoing debate between national independence and global collaboration, raising important questions about how countries will work together to tackle future health challenges.