Argentina confirms withdrawal from WHO during visit of US health official
Argentina Withdraws from WHO, Cites Political Influence and Inefficiency
Argentina has made official its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following in the footsteps of the United States. The announcement came following a visit by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy to Buenos Aires.
First announced by President Javier Milei in February, the withdrawal cited the WHO's inability to base its decisions on science instead of political interests and bureaucratic structures. This criticism stemmed from the agency's handling during the COVID-19 pandemic, which the Argentine government deemed "disastrous."
The WHO's prescriptions, according to Argentina, lack a scientific foundation, and the agency's management during this critical period was criticized for being politically motivated rather than evidence-based.
Kennedy and Argentine Health Minister Mario Lugones recently met to outline a joint work agenda aimed at enhancing transparency and bolstering trust within the health system. Lugones stated, "In collaboration with Robert Kennedy, we believe in the future of collaboration in global health. We have similar visions about the path forward."
The Argentine government has also initiated a "structural review" of its national health agencies to streamline and update the health system's structures and processes. This review aims to address the longstanding issues of overlapping structures, outdated regulations, and inadequate oversight that have beset the health system.
In his speech at the WHO's annual assembly last week, Kennedy criticized the United Nations health agency for being under the undue influence of China, gender ideology, and the pharmaceutical industry. He urged other governments to withdraw from the WHO and establish new institutions.
Kennedy's expected meeting with Milei during his visit to Argentina may further clarify the future direction of their collaboration in global health matters. Both countries share similar outlooks, suggesting they may explore alternative international health structures or partnerships.
- Argentina's withdrawal from the WHO, prompted by political influences and inefficiencies, may stimulate discussions on redefining the medical-conditions and health-and-wellness sector, opening up possibilities for new partnerships or alternative international structures.
- Amidst general-news regarding the WHO's perceived influence from China, gender ideology, and the pharmaceutical industry, the medical community should focus on upholding evidence-based decisions in managing medical-conditions and promoting health-and-wellness, free from political interference.
