Argentina Leader Orders WHO Exit, Echoing Trump
The government of Argentina, led by President Javier Milei, has announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
A spokesperson for President Milei cited significant disagreements with the WHO on health management, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, as the primary reason for this move. This decision comes after US President Donald Trump initiated the process of withdrawing from the international health organisation.
Despite their differences with the WHO, both leaders have expressed mutual respect for each other. President Milei praised Trump’s re-election as the “greatest political comeback in history,” while Trump referred to his Argentine counterpart as “my favorite president.”
President Milei’s decision to exit the WHO echoes the justifications put forth by the United States for its withdrawal from the organisation.
Both countries have highlighted their experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic, with Argentina implementing extensive lockdowns and expressing concerns about Chinese influence within the WHO. However, the potential ramifications of their exits from the organisation differ significantly.
While the United States is the largest individual contributor to the WHO, providing around $950 million in 2024 (nearly 15% of the total budget), Argentina’s annual contribution of approximately $8 million is unlikely to have a significant financial impact on the organisation.
The bigger question that arises is whether other leaders who share President Trump’s perspective, such as President Milei, will also consider following suit and exiting the WHO.
