KUALA LUMPUR February 7, 2025 – President Javier Milei has announced Argentina’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following a similar move made by the United States just last month.
Milei, a known close ally of Trump, stated that the primary reason for Argentina’s departure from the WHO was the “deep differences” regarding the organization’s approach to health management.
Both Trump and Milei has been vocal in their criticism of the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. This criticism played a significant role in driving Argentina toward its withdrawal, given that Argentina was one of the few countries forced to extend its lockdown as the virus spread uncontrollably.
Trump claimed that the organization demanded a large payment from the United States, despite its mismanagement of pandemic and other health challenges. In an Instagram post, Milei stated: “Thats why we decided to leave an organization so nefarious that it was the executing arm of what was the largest social control experiment in history.”
This was a direct blame towards the World Health Organization and their advices on physical distancing during the deadly pandemic. According to World O Meters, Argentina recorded a total amount of 130,841 deaths due to Covid-19.
Milei’s move to leave the WHO is seen as a step towards aligning Argentina with Trump’s policies. Since taking office in 2023, he has also proposed exiting the Paris Agreement and building a border fence with Bolivia. The publics reacted, warning that the country’s challenges will not be solved by forging stronger ties with the States.
The Impact On WHO
While US remains the biggest financial contributor to WHO, Argentina allocates around 8 million annually towards their healthcare. This would not cause dent in WHO’s financial position, unless other nation leaders decide to follow Milei’s stance on the issue.
With health crises growing rapidly in the current world, questions arise regarding the impact of US’ departure as the top funder for World Health Organization. The credibility of this long-established organization is at risk if this worldview continues to spread.
