(CLO) The Argentine government has just announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), just over two weeks after the United States made a similar move.
The decision is seen as reflecting criticism of the WHO by President Javier Milei's administration, which believes the organization lacks independence and does not bring practical benefits.
WHO headquarters. Photo: Yann Forget / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA
Speaking at a press conference on February 5, Argentine presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni confirmed that President Javier Milei had instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to take charge of the process of Argentina's withdrawal from the WHO.
"This decision stems from profound differences in the approach and management of health between Argentina and WHO, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic," Mr. Adorni emphasized.
He also criticized the WHO for losing its independence due to political pressure from some countries, and mentioned that Argentina had been under "the longest lockdown in human history" under former President Alberto Fernández, following WHO recommendations.
Foreign Minister Werthein and his team of advisers are currently assessing the legal implications of Argentina's withdrawal from international organizations.
The government led by the far-right La Libertad Avanza party is pursuing a policy of reducing Argentina's participation in international organizations that it considers "costly without providing practical benefits." Leaving the WHO is part of this trend.
Previously, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the US from the WHO, citing the organization's failure to handle the Covid-19 pandemic well, failure to carry out necessary reforms, and political influence.
He also criticized the WHO for asking the US to contribute an unfair amount of money compared to other countries. The WHO's current budget is about $6.8 billion, of which the US is the largest donor with 20%.
WHO is the United Nations' leading health agency, established in 1948 with the primary mission of protecting and promoting global health. The organization plays a key role in responding to epidemics, setting health standards, and providing health assistance to member countries.
Cao Phong (according to CNA, The Guardian, BBC)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tiep-buoc-my-argentina-roi-khoi-to-chuc-y-te-the-gioi-post333223.html
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