Milei's decision raises concerns for environmentalists about potential withdrawals from other international agreements, including the Paris climate accord.
**Argentina's Bold Move: President Milei Announces Withdrawal from WHO**
**Argentina's Bold Move: President Milei Announces Withdrawal from WHO**
Argentina's President Javier Milei mirrors Donald Trump's agenda by planning to exit the World Health Organization, citing dissatisfaction with the global health body.
Argentina's political landscape took a drastic turn as President Javier Milei announced his intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). This move echoes a similar strategy employed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who signed an executive order to initiate the U.S. exit from the WHO shortly after taking office.
Milei's administration has voiced strong discontent with how the WHO managed health crises, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. A presidential spokesperson articulated that the WHO's policies, described as politically influenced rather than scientifically grounded, led to ineffective health management. The statement outlined that the WHO’s advocacy for lockdowns lacked evidence and ultimately failed to address the pandemic challenges adequately.
As Milei hinted at signing an executive order soon to formalize this withdrawal, he characterized the decision as a move to reclaim Argentina's health sovereignty. "We Argentines will not allow an international body to interfere with our sovereignty, especially concerning our health," said spokesman Manuel Adorni. He argued that exiting the WHO could grant Argentina the flexibility to tailor health strategies to national interests, potentially saving the country its approximately $10 million annual membership fee.
The relationship between Milei and Trump is not merely political. Milei was the first foreign leader to meet Trump following his election victory and praised him as a driving force for freedom. This aligns with Milei's politically free-market ideology, which positions Argentina against what he perceives as overreach by international bodies.
Environmental activists within Argentina are apprehensive about Milei's potential propensity to mirror Trump’s approach beyond health policy. There are growing concerns that he may consider withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement, which aims to tackle climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The unfolding situation with Milei's government is likely to have significant implications on both health and environmental policies within Argentina and on the international stage.
