Jerry Jackson Argentina has decided to leave the World Health Organization (WHO), following the US move. Government spokesperson Manuel Adorni confirmed that President Javier Milei instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to proceed with the withdrawal. The government pointed to significant disagreements with the WHO’s handling of the pandemic.
This withdrawal reflects a broader trend of skepticism toward global institutions. The US initiated this shift, with President Donald Trump implementing drastic measures against various UN organizations.
Trump recently escalated his stance against the United Nations (UN). He severed ties with the UN Human Rights Council and stopped funding for the Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA). He also signaled a possible departure from UNESCO.
His directive requires a comprehensive review of all international organizations where the US is a member. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has six months to determine whether these institutions align with US priorities. The World Trade Organization (WTO) is likely under review as well.
As the US distances itself from the UN, China is stepping in. Beijing has committed to strengthening multilateralism and increasing its global role. Experts like Richard Gowan from the International Crisis Group suggest that China will leverage this situation to its advantage.
The US has historically been the largest financial backer of several UN agencies. In 2022, it contributed nearly a third of UNRWA’s budget. Now, Trump has cut off those funds entirely. He has also withdrawn financial support from the UN Human Rights Council, accusing it of unfairly targeting Israel and protecting authoritarian regimes.
A US exit from UNESCO could further diminish its global influence. With Argentina now following the US lead, the future of international institutions faces growing uncertainty.