Argentina officially withdraws from World Health Organization, following US

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BUENOS AIRES: Argentina has officially finalized its withdrawal from the World Health Organization, formally severing ties with the global health body on Tuesday. Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno confirmed that the decision, which was first set in motion a year ago, has now taken full effect. 

This move marks a significant shift in the nation's foreign policy under the administration of President Javier Milei, who has frequently criticized international organizations for infringing upon national autonomy.

The decision closely mirrors the actions of the United States, which finalized its own withdrawal from the agency in January 2026. Both President Milei and U.S. President Donald Trump have argued that the WHO overstepped its advisory role, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Milei has been a vocal critic of the organization’s pandemic-era recommendations, such as masking and social distancing, labeling the agency a "nefarious organization" that conducted a massive experiment in social control.

In a statement following the official exit, Minister Quirno emphasized that Argentina intends to protect its sovereignty and its capacity to make independent decisions regarding health policy. He clarified that the country does not intend to isolate itself entirely from international medical cooperation, but will instead shift its focus toward bilateral agreements and regional forums. 

This approach seeks to replace the multilateral framework of the WHO with direct, state-to-state partnerships that the administration believes are more aligned with Argentina’s specific national interests.

The World Health Organization, which remains an advisory body for its 194 remaining members, has expressed deep concern over these high-profile exits. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus previously stated that the reasons cited for these withdrawals are "untrue" and warned that such moves make both the departing nations and the rest of the world less safe. As a result of this exit, Argentina will no longer contribute to the WHO’s budget or receive direct technical support from the agency.