Italy's Lega Party Calls for WHO Withdrawal

In the wake of the United States' declared intention to exit the World Health Organization (WHO), Italy's Lega party, part of the country's governing coalition, is advocating for a similar Italian withdrawal. Matteo Salvini, the right-wing nationalist party leader and Deputy Prime Minister, has introduced a legislative proposal in the Senate, although its success appears doubtful. The largest parliamentary party, Fratelli d'Italia, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, currently holds no stance on leaving the WHO. Furthermore, the conservative, pro-European Forza Italia, another coalition partner, is unlikely to support the motion. The opposition has criticized the proposal.

Lega Senator Claudio Borghi justifies the withdrawal by arguing that international organizations wield excessive power and consume too many resources. He notes that Italy contributes 100 million euros annually to the WHO, suggesting these funds could better support the national health system or cooperation projects with the US. This move mirrors US President Donald Trump's decision to leave the WHO, announced shortly after his inauguration, citing high contribution costs as the reason. As the largest financial contributor to the WHO, the US withdrawal could necessitate a significant reorganization of the organization, potentially harming global health initiatives. However, according to WHO regulations, the US withdrawal process would take a year to complete.

The WHO, established in 1948, aims to uphold health as a fundamental human right globally. Member countries' financial contributions are based on their economic strength and population size. The organization has played a crucial role in eradicating or controlling severe diseases such as smallpox and polio.