US, Argentina propose ‘new path,’ WHO alternative

The United States and Argentina have announced plans to create a new international health system as an alternative to the World Health Organization (WHO). 

The move follows both countries’ decisions to leave the controversial United Nations agency, citing its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other issues. 

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Argentine Health Minister Mario Lugones made the announcement Tuesday in a joint statement. 

“The absence of meaningful reforms, disproportionate financial demands, and the increasing politicization of the organization have ultimately led the United States and Argentina to withdraw from the WHO,” the statement said. “Withdrawal marks the beginning of a new path – toward building a modern global health cooperation model grounded in scientific integrity, transparency, sovereignty, and accountability.” 

Kennedy and Lugones emphasized the importance of cost-effective, evidence-based public health strategies that prioritize prevention, especially for children, by addressing root causes of illness like environmental toxins, nutritional deficiencies and food safety standards. 

“Under President Donald J. Trump, the United States is restoring a sovereign, results-driven approach – putting people above politics,” the statement said. “Argentina, likewise, supports public health systems rooted in autonomy, transparency, innovation, and scientific rigor.” 

Trump signed an executive order to withdraw from the WHO on his first day in office this year. He called the move “a big one.” 

Critics of the WHO point to the organization’s financial priorities as proof of misplaced focus.  

The agency’s “Human Reproduction Programme” spent roughly 11% of its 2022-23 budget on abortion-related projects, Life News reports. 

Conversely, only 5% of the budget went to combating violence against women and girls, and 15% to maternal and perinatal health programs. 

Right To Life UK spokesperson Catherine Robinson condemned the WHO’s approach. 

“When millions more dollars are spent on abortion than preventing violence against women and girls, it is clear that something has gone terribly wrong,” she said. 

Raimundo Rojas, Outreach Director for the National Right to Life Committee, also criticized the agency. 

“Now, more than ever, a pro-life American presence is essential to counter the overwhelming support the WHO provides to organizations promoting abortion,” he said.