Argentina has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), with the withdrawal taking effect today, March 17, 2026. This decision was confirmed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Pablo Quirno, who stated, “Today, Argentina’s withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) takes effect, marking one year since the formal notification was made by our country.”
The withdrawal comes amid criticisms from President Javier Milei regarding the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quirno emphasized that Argentina will continue to promote international cooperation in health through bilateral agreements and regional forums, while fully preserving its sovereignty and its capacity to make decisions regarding health policies.
Argentina’s exit from the WHO is notable as it follows a similar decision made by the United States under former President Donald Trump in January 2026. Currently, there are 194 member states in the WHO, and Argentina’s departure marks a significant shift in the global health landscape.
In addition to this withdrawal, Argentina has recently signed the Framework Agreement for Reciprocal Trade and Investment (ARTI) with the United States. This agreement increases Argentina’s beef export quota to the US from 20,000 tons to 100,000 tons annually, enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
Through the ARTI agreement, Argentina also gains the status of ‘Major Non-NATO Ally’, which comes with commitments to use only suppliers from ‘trusted nations’ in critical sectors. Furthermore, Argentina is required to inform the US about incoming investments to assess national security risks.
Quirno’s statements reflect a broader trend in Argentina’s foreign policy, focusing on national sovereignty and bilateral agreements rather than multilateral organizations. Meanwhile, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the WHO, criticized the withdrawal, stating, “The notification of withdrawal makes both the US and the world less safe.”
As these developments unfold, the implications for Argentina’s health policy and international relations will continue to be closely monitored.
