Milei imitates Trump and announces withdrawal from Argentina from WHO

The Argentine government, led by President Javier Milei, has announced that he plans to remove the country from the World Health Organization (WHO). The decision was confirmed on Wednesday (5) by the presidential spokesman, Manuel Adorni, who attributed the measure to “deep differences” in relation to policies of the International Health Agency, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. The measure imitates Donald Trump’s institutional ruptures, as well as the announcement of the construction of a 200 -meter wire barrier on the border with Bolivia, and the reinforcement of control in borders with Brazil and other borderwords.

The Argentine government criticizes Lockdown policies implemented during the health crisis, which they consider excessive and harmful to individual economy and freedom. The Government Malei criticizes the role of WHO in the pandemic and argues that the guidelines of the organization took over a confinement in Argentina during the government of Alberto Fernández. However, WHO has no power to impose lockdowns, only scientific evidence -based recommendations. The decision to implement restrictions was from the Argentine government of the time, not the WHO.

According to Adorni, WHO management during the global health crisis resulted in “in the greatest confinement of humanity” and was strongly influenced by political interests in some states, accusing the organization of being “controlled by China.” He pointed out that the departure of the organization also represents a matter of national sovereignty. “Argentines will not allow an international organization to intervene in our sovereignty, let alone our health,” he said.

The Argentine government’s decision to leave WHO is a movement that reflects Javier Milei’s ultraliberal view and his criticism of international organisms. However, the measure raises questions about the real benefits to Argentina and the possible risks of isolation in an increasingly interdependent global scenario. Similarly, the fence on the border raises questions about its legality and diplomatic impacts, especially within Mercosur.

While the government advocates the measure as a statement of sovereignty, the warning of the WHO exits may limit the country’s ability to respond to future health seizures and to participate in global initiatives. The debate on the role of WHO and national sovereignty will remain a central theme in international politics, especially in a postpandey world.

Support to Trump and ideological alignment
The announcement occurs shortly after US President Donald Trump signs an executive order starting the United States withdrawal from WHO. Milei and Trump have expressed mutual admiration, with the Argentine calling the American reelection of “the greatest political return in history.” Trump, in turn, described Milei as “my favorite president.”

The US departure from WHO raises questions about the organization’s future financial, as the country is the largest individual contributor, investing about $ 950 million annually. Argentina’s contribution is approximately $ 8 million annually, an amount that should not have a significant impact on the WHO budget. The fear, however, is that other countries follow the example and compromise the credibility of the institution.

Thus, the financial impact of the withdrawal will be irrelevant to the body, as well as 200 meters of fence of wire for immigration control. This raises an question: Will the exit bring concrete gains to Argentina, or is it just a strategy to reinforce Milei’s image as Donald Trump’s ally?

Sovereignty or isolation?

The Argentine government’s justification for the departure of WHO revolves around the defense of national sovereignty and autonomy in health management. However, critics question whether the measure will not isolate the country at a time when international cooperation is crucial to facing global challenges such as pandemics and climate change. No other Latin American country has indicated intentions of leaving WHO, and even conservative governments maintain their participation in the body.

WHO plays a key role in coordinating responses to health crises, sharing scientific knowledge and the distribution of vaccines and medicines. Argentina’s departure may limit its access to these collaboration networks, especially in future sanitary emergencies.

In addition, Milei’s decision is seen by some as a political play in line with his far-right speech and anti-institutions, which seeks to reduce the influence of international organisms. However, public health specialists warn that the measure can have negative consequences for the Argentine population, which will lose WHO’s technical and logistics support.

Other International Agreements

Sources of the Argentine press indicate that Milei should sign an executive order in the coming days to officialize the country’s withdrawal from WHO. The process, however, can take up to a year to complete.

Asked if Argentina intends to leave other international organisms or treaties, Adorni did not rule out the possibility. “The president is very determined to make Argentina freer. Any bond with entities that limit our freedoms will be reevaluated, ”he said.

The decision has generated concern between environmental activists, who fear that Malei follows Trump’s footsteps and also remove Argentina from the Paris Agreement, an international treaty focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Since his inauguration, Milei has shown skepticism about global environmental policies, which may indicate a possible next step in his strategy for deficing international organizations.

Experts indicate that the initiative of the fence against Bolivians can hurt Mercosur principles, which promotes the integration and free circulation of people. Unilateral physical barriers also violate principles of international public law. On the other hand, Argentina’s migratory history contrasts with the proposed measure. Walls do not prevent drug trafficking and smuggling, but the United States would have already resolved its migratory crisis. Organized crime always finds new routes, and effective solutions undergo shared intelligence and electronic monitoring.

Milei’s stance on multilateral organisms reflects a worldview that prioritizes national sovereignty over international cooperation. However, in an increasingly interconnected world, experts argue that isolation can be counterproductive, especially in areas such as health and environment, where challenges transcend national borders.