Argentina completes withdrawal from WHO, citing sovereignty and policy differences
The decision took effect one year after formal notification was issued by President Javier Milei’s administration, marking a shift in Argentina’s approach to international health cooperation
Argentina on 17 March finalized its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), the government said, following a similar move by the United States earlier this year.
"Today, Argentina's withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) takes effect, marking one year since the formal notification was made by our country," said Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno, reports Al Jazeera.
The decision took effect one year after formal notification was issued by President Javier Milei's administration, marking a shift in Argentina's approach to international health cooperation.
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Milei has been a vocal critic of the WHO, particularly over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He has described the organization as "nefarious organization." He also said the WHO executed "the greatest experiment in social control in history" in reference to pandemic-era measures such as masking and vaccinations.
Argentina will no longer participate in the agency responsible for tracking diseases and promoting healthcare access, Quirno said, adding: "Argentina will continue to promote international cooperation in health through bilateral agreements and regional forums, while fully preserving its sovereignty and its capacity to make decisions regarding health policies."
The position aligns with that of US President Donald Trump, whose country formalized its own withdrawal in January 2026.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus disputed the rationale behind the US decision, saying: "Unfortunately, the reasons cited for the US decision to withdraw from WHO are untrue." He added, "The notification of withdrawal makes both the US and the world less safe."
Despite the departures, the WHO remains an advisory body with 194 members, though its website still listed Argentina as a member on the day the withdrawal took effect.
The move comes amid domestic tensions in Argentina, including strikes and protests against Milei's broader labour reforms and economic policies.
