Buenos Aires – Argentina has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), a move confirmed by the country’s Foreign Minister Pablo Killarino on March 17th. The decision, initially announced in 2025, took effect one year after notification to the WHO, as stipulated by international treaty. This action places Argentina alongside the United States as a major nation no longer participating in the global health body.
The withdrawal marks a significant shift in Argentina’s international health policy and raises questions about its future collaborations in addressing global health challenges. While severing ties with the WHO, Foreign Minister Killarino emphasized that Argentina remains committed to international health cooperation, intending to pursue partnerships through bilateral agreements and regional mechanisms. This commitment, however, will be coupled with a desire to maintain autonomy in its health policy decisions.
A Year-Long Process Culminates in Formal Exit
The process of withdrawal began on March 17, 2025, when Argentina’s Foreign Ministry formally notified the WHO’s depositary, the United Nations Secretary-General, of its intent to exit the organization. According to Xinhua News Agency, the WHO charter dictates a one-year waiting period between notification and official exit. This timeline was adhered to, with the decision becoming effective on March 17, 2026.
The move follows a pattern established by the United States, which under the Trump administration, initially announced its withdrawal from the WHO in July 2020. While the Biden administration halted the US exit in January 2021, the US has continued to express concerns regarding the WHO’s effectiveness and transparency. As reported by Tencent News, Argentina’s decision has been described as following in the footsteps of the United States.
Maintaining International Health Cooperation Through Alternative Channels
Despite exiting the WHO, Argentina intends to continue engaging in international health collaboration. Foreign Minister Killarino stated the country will prioritize bilateral agreements and regional initiatives to address health concerns. This approach suggests a preference for more direct control over health policy and a potential divergence from the WHO’s standardized guidelines. The specifics of these modern partnerships remain to be detailed, but the intention signals a continued recognition of the importance of global health security.
This strategy mirrors a broader trend of nations seeking greater autonomy in health policy, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global health systems and prompted some countries to reassess their reliance on international organizations. Argentina’s decision can be viewed as part of this evolving landscape, where national sovereignty and self-reliance are increasingly emphasized.
The Implications for Regional Health Initiatives
Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO could have implications for regional health initiatives in South America. The WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to outbreaks, providing technical assistance, and setting health standards across the region. Without Argentina’s participation, these efforts may grow more fragmented and less effective. However, Argentina’s commitment to regional mechanisms suggests it will continue to contribute to health security in South America, albeit through different channels.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the regional office of the WHO for the Americas, will likely be affected by Argentina’s departure. PAHO relies on member state contributions and expertise to carry out its work. Argentina’s withdrawal could lead to a reduction in funding and a loss of valuable insights from the country’s health system. PAHO will need to adapt its strategies to address these challenges and maintain its effectiveness in the region.
Context: Global Scrutiny of the WHO
The WHO has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years, particularly regarding its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Criticisms have centered on its initial response to the outbreak, its relationship with China, and its perceived lack of independence. These concerns have fueled calls for reform within the organization and prompted some countries to reconsider their membership. Argentina’s decision to withdraw is, in part, a reflection of these broader criticisms.
The United States, for example, withheld funding from the WHO during the Trump administration, citing concerns about its transparency and accountability. While the Biden administration rejoined the organization, it has continued to advocate for reforms to strengthen its governance and effectiveness. These calls for reform highlight the need for the WHO to address the concerns of its member states and demonstrate its value as a global health leader.
Financial Implications of Withdrawal
Argentina’s withdrawal from the WHO also has financial implications. Member states are assessed contributions based on their wealth and population. The WHO will lose Argentina’s assessed contributions, which could impact its budget and its ability to fund programs. However, the financial impact is likely to be relatively small compared to the WHO’s overall budget. Tencent News reported that the US had not paid $278 million in assessed fees as of January 22, 2026, a significantly larger sum.
The WHO relies on a mix of assessed contributions and voluntary donations from member states and private organizations. The organization is actively seeking to diversify its funding sources and increase its financial sustainability. Argentina’s withdrawal underscores the importance of securing stable and predictable funding for the WHO to ensure its long-term viability.
What Happens Next?
Argentina’s immediate focus will be on establishing new bilateral and regional partnerships to continue its international health cooperation. The specifics of these agreements are yet to be announced, but they are expected to prioritize Argentina’s autonomy in health policy decision-making. The country will also likely engage in discussions with PAHO to explore ways to maintain collaboration on regional health initiatives.
Looking ahead, the WHO will need to address the concerns that led to Argentina’s withdrawal and work to strengthen its relationships with member states. This will require greater transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the needs of its members. The organization’s future success depends on its ability to adapt to the evolving global health landscape and demonstrate its value as a trusted partner in addressing health challenges.
The next key development to watch will be the formalization of Argentina’s new health partnerships and the implementation of its alternative strategies for international health cooperation. Further details are expected to be released by the Argentine Foreign Ministry in the coming months.
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