Argentina has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), its foreign ministry announced on Tuesday, becoming the latest country to exit the global health body.
The move follows a similar decision by the United States earlier this year under President Donald Trump. Argentina’s government, led by President Javier Milei, had signalled its intention to leave the organisation a year ago, citing concerns over the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the foreign ministry, the withdrawal process has now been completed in line with international treaty requirements.
Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno said Argentina would continue to engage in global health cooperation through bilateral and regional partnerships.
“Argentina will continue to promote international cooperation in health while fully preserving its sovereignty and its capacity to make decisions regarding health policies,” Quirno said.
Argentine authorities have previously criticised the WHO, alleging that some of its recommendations were influenced by political considerations rather than science.The WHO has played a major role in tackling global health crises, including efforts against diseases such as polio, HIV, Ebola and tuberculosis.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, had earlier expressed regret over similar withdrawal decisions, warning they could weaken global health security.
Argentina’s exit marks a significant development in international health cooperation, raising concerns about the potential impact on coordinated responses to future global health emergencies
