**Summary of Javier Milei’s Policy Agenda and Reforms in Argentina (2023–2024):**

**Economic Reforms:**
- **Deregulation and “Mega-Decree”:** Shortly after assuming office, Milei issued a sweeping “mega-decree” aimed at dismantling a host of regulations that he claimed “have held back and prevented economic growth.” This set the tone for his administration’s free-market, libertarian agenda.

- **Omnibus Reform Bill:** Milei submitted a comprehensive omnibus bill (“Foundations and Starting Points for the Freedom of the Argentine People”) to Congress, containing far-reaching changes across economic, political, and institutional sectors.

- **Public Spending Cuts:** Milei has aggressively cut public spending, slashing social welfare, public transport, and basic services subsidies, and terminating public employees’ contracts with less than one year of tenure.

These austerity measures sparked mass protests.

- **Currency Policy:** He campaigned on “dollarization” (replacing the Argentine peso with the US dollar) as a fix for hyperinflation; this proposal faces opposition and has so far not been implemented.

- **Privatization Plans:** Milei threatened to privatize major state assets — including the oil company YPF — but later shelved some privatization ideas to win moderate Congressional support.

**Political and Institutional Approach:**
- **Anti-Establishment Stance:** Milei presents himself as the enemy of “the caste”—Argentina’s political elite—and calls for a sweeping break with traditional politics, earning support among disaffected, especially younger, voters seeking a “rebel” against the status quo.

- **Limited Congressional Clout:** Lacking a legislative majority, Milei is often forced to compromise or backtrack on radical proposals during negotiations with Congress.

- **Clash with Labor Unions:** Milei’s moves to reduce the strength and size of government, notably at the expense of labor protections, have drawn the ire of Argentina’s powerful unions, resulting in strikes and unrest.

- **Handling Protests:** In response to widespread dissent and street protests over austerity, his government thus far has stayed firm on its reform trajectory, though opposition remains intense.

**Foreign Policy:**
- **Ideological Realignment:** Initially declared he would ‘not make pacts with communists’ and suggested distancing from China and Brazil (Argentina’s top trade partners).

However, diplomatic pragmatism prevailed—he has since moderated this stance, inviting dialogue.

- **“Western Pivot”:** Reaffirmed his alignment with the US, Israel, and “the free world” in international affairs.

**Societal and Institutional Impact:**
- **Uncertainty for Science & Public Services:** The science sector and public services face budget threats, with the future of state-supported research and welfare institutions uncertain under Milei’s aggressive market-oriented reforms.

- **Public Reaction:** There is significant polarization: while many business owners, young people, and free-market advocates embrace Milei as a hope for change, many others—particularly those affected by subsidy cuts and labor reforms—have taken to the streets in protest, fearing the social costs of rapid liberalization.

**Implications:**
Milei’s presidency marks a radical libertarian experiment in a nation long characterized by heavy state intervention.

His policies are rapidly reshaping Argentina’s economic landscape, governance structures, and social compact.

Yet institutional limitations, societal backlash, and political opposition are tempering the extent and speed of reform, rendering Argentina a high-stakes test case for market-driven change in Latin America.

**Summary of Key Nuggets from Text on Javier Milei’s Policy Agenda and Approach:**

**Economic Reforms:**
- Milei’s main economic goal is achieving a **zero budget deficit** within a year.

This means dramatic cuts to public spending and a commitment not to raise or create new taxes, notably rejecting a tax on private property.

- He has implemented a **severe devaluation** of the Argentine peso, **halved the official exchange rate** against the US dollar, and removed various price controls, including those on energy tariffs, which led to an immediate rise in prices but is viewed as a move towards “fair prices.”
- Milei is committed to **shock therapy**—fast, sweeping, and drastic market-oriented reforms to stabilize the economy, even if it means short-term pain for much of society.

- He has promised the "belt-tightening" will fall on the state (through spending cuts and layoffs) rather than on private businesses.

- Long-term, Milei has floated **dollarization**—adopting the US dollar and closing the Central Bank, arguing the peso has caused chronic inflation since the 1930s.

- He acknowledged inflation will not be solved quickly, estimating at least a year and a half for meaningful progress.

**Political and Institutional Reforms:**
- Milei dismissed all officials appointed in 2023, signaling a **house-cleaning of the bureaucracy**.

- He relies on **presidential decrees** to advance his agenda, with a readiness to bring proposals to referenda if blocked in parliament, demonstrating a willingness to bypass traditional legislative routes.

- He positions himself as anti-establishment, aiming to “end the games of socialism and groveling before the trade unions.”
- He supports **liberalizing gun laws:** “introduce the free sale of weapons.”
- Strongly libertarian-leaning, he champions individual freedom: "Who are you to determine what a person does with his life?"

**Foreign Policy Changes:**
- Intends to shift Argentina’s alignment sharply **toward the United States and Israel**, and away from countries like China, Cuba, and North Korea (“communists”).

- Skeptical of Argentina’s ongoing BRICS membership.

- Plans to convene a **Latin American summit in support of Ukraine**, highlighting a reorientation away from previous alliances.

**Social and Political Context:**
- Milei’s presidency represents a dramatic **rightward shift** and anti-left backlash in Argentina’s politics, breaking with the region's “pink tide.”
- His aggressive reforms have already faced public resistance and caused unrest; social tensions are high, with protests and law enforcement confrontations reported.

- Milei’s approach is described as **“shock therapy”** by the media and analysts, with comparisons to historical poisons—indicating both the perceived risks and the dramatic nature of his interventions.

**Implications:**
- These reforms are **reshaping Argentina’s institutions** by weakening the state, bureaucracy, and union power, while emphasizing market mechanisms and private initiative.

- The social fabric is under strain due to abrupt economic changes and public sector cuts.

- Argentina is positioned as a potential **test case for radical libertarian policymaking** in Latin America, with uncertain outcomes for stability and growth.

**In summary:**
Javier Milei’s agenda is marked by radical libertarian and neoliberal reforms, prioritizing fiscal discipline, currency stability, deregulation, shrinking the public sector, and a new foreign policy alignment.

These changes are producing social upheaval and institutional realignment, with significant consequences for Argentina’s future trajectory.

**Summary of Key Policies and Reforms of President Javier Milei in Argentina**

1.

**Austerity and Spending Cuts**:
   - Javier Milei has made severe austerity the centerpiece of his economic agenda, declaring that Argentina has "no money and no alternative" but to cut spending dramatically.

- He aims to reduce public spending by about 5% of GDP, a significant contraction in the budget for social programs and state functions.

- Immediate actions included massive cuts to government subsidies, particularly for fuel and transportation, leading to higher costs for citizens.

**Currency Devaluation and Inflation**:
   - Upon taking office, Milei’s government devalued the Argentine peso by more than 50%.

- These measures come as the country is gripped by its highest inflation in 30 years—at about 140% annually—and with poverty affecting close to 40% of the population.

- Amid these shocks, the government has warned the public that hyperinflation is a real threat and that the crisis may worsen before improvements are seen.

**Legal and Institutional Reforms**:
   - Milei has pursued aggressive use of presidential decrees to implement changes rapidly.

One such major decree aims to overhaul economic regulations and limit strikes, even though the right to strike is constitutionally protected.

- The decree's validity is subject to congressional approval, and it can be revoked if rejected by both houses—highlighting tensions over executive overreach.

**Parliamentary Strategy and Challenges**:
   - While broad reform packages have been presented to parliament, Milei's party lacks a majority.

This requires him to engage in extensive negotiations with other parties and MPs.

- Despite mass protests and strong opposition—evidenced by tens of thousands gathering outside the parliament—he has managed to pass his reform package in principle, but each component will be debated and amended in detail.

**International Support and Debt**:
   - The IMF has signaled support for Milei's reforms by providing a $4.7 billion loan disbursement, seen as a vote of confidence from international creditors but also as putting the country on a path of strict fiscal discipline.

**Societal Impact and Popular Response**:
   - Milei’s drastic policies have ignited widespread anxiety, protest, and debate.

Many Argentines are worried about their falling purchasing power and increased economic uncertainty.

- Supporters favor his strong, transparent rhetoric and market-oriented proposals, while critics fear social crisis and institutional destabilization.

- Public discourse is marked by high polarization, with support for Milei often stemming more from rejection of alternatives than full confidence in his agenda.

**Summary of Javier Milei’s Policy Agenda and Reforms in Argentina (2023–2024):**

**Economic Reforms:**
- **Deregulation and “Mega-Decree”:** Shortly after assuming office, Milei issued a sweeping “mega-decree” aimed at dismantling a host of regulations that he claimed “have held back and prevented economic growth.” This set the tone for his administration’s free-market, libertarian agenda.

Title:

Content: Milei Experiment

In the tangled web of Argentine politics and economics, one figure has emerged as both a lightning rod for controversy and a beacon of hope ~ President Javier Milei.

In the tangled web of Argentine politics and economics, one figure has emerged as both a lightning rod for controversy and a beacon of hope ~ President Javier Milei. His first 100 days in office have been marked by a whirlwind of fiscal manoeuvres, bold policy shifts, and commitment to economic reform. But as Argentina teeters on the edge of uncertainty, Mr Milei’s ambitious agenda raises questions even it offers solutions. At the heart of Mr Milei’s strategy lies a radical departure from conventional wisdom.

Brandishing a chainsaw as a symbol of fiscal austerity, he has pledged to slash spending and achieve a budget surplus, a feat unheard of in a country plagued by decades of fiscal mismanagement. His unorthodox approach has garnered both praise and scepticism, as Argentines grapple with the harsh realities of rising poverty and economic contraction. The cornerstone of Mr Milei’s economic vision is the elimination of money-printing and the pursuit of a unified exchange rate. By devaluing the peso and cutting interest rates, he aims to rein in inflation and restore confidence in the economy.

Yet the path to stability is fraught with pitfalls, as the spectre of recession looms large and investors remain wary of the government’s opaque monetary policies. While Mr Milei’s commitment to reform is commendable, his political isolation poses a significant obstacle to meaningful change. With little support in the Argentine Congress and a fragmented coalition, he faces an uphill battle. The recent defeat of a sprawling omnibus bill highlights the challenges ahead, as competing interests and entrenched political factions threaten to derail Mr Milei’s ambitions. Moreover, the uncertainty surrounding Argentina’s future monetary regime adds another layer of complexity to the equation. Will Mr Milei pivot towards dollarization or pursue a more gradual approach to currency reform? The lack of clarity on this front only serves to fuel investor anxieties and exacerbate economic volatility. Amidst these challenges, Mr Milei’s fate hangs in the balance. How much economic pain can Argentines endure before turning on their unconventional leader? And can Mr Milei muster the political support needed to navigate the treacherous waters of Argentine politics?

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In the end, the trajectory of Mr Milei’s presidency hinges on the delicate balance between economic resilience and political manoeuvring. Should he manage to maintain public support and secure crucial alliances, Mr Milei could emerge as a formidable force in next year’s mid-term elections. However, any slip in popularity could spell disaster for his ambitious agenda, opening the door for his adversaries to dismantle his presidency. Whether Mr Milei’s gamble will pay off remains to be seen. But one thing is certain. In a country accustomed to political upheaval and economic turmoil, the journey towards reform is bound to be fraught with uncertainty and adversity. Only time will tell whether Mr Milei’s vision for Argentina’s future will lead to prosperity or further hardship

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How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

suspended 366 decrees to ease economic controls and reduce spending.

- **Omnibus Reform Bill:** Milei submitted a comprehensive omnibus bill (“Foundations and Starting Points for the Freedom of the Argentine People”) to Congress, containing far-reaching changes across economic, political, and institutional sectors.

Title:

Content: Argentina’s Javier Milei’s “Instant Democracy” and Neoliberalism

Javier Milei, YouTube screen grab.

Self-described “anarcho-capitalist,” Javier Milei became the president of Argentina in December 2023 promising “drastic” measures to temper the inflation crisis that has gripped the country. In the weeks since his election, Milei has brought forward an ambitious neoliberal restructuring program encompassing almost every aspect of the government.

Milei’s agenda confronts considerable opposition in Congress, where his governing coalition, Libertad Avanza, holds only a fraction of the seats. To adjust to these circumstances, Milei has cultivated a strategy of “turbo-politics,” bypassing legislative processes that risk delaying the implementation of his state reorganization plans.

Milei’s approach to Congress is symbolic of a decades-old strategy I have elsewhere called “neoliberal parliamentarism.” This concept describes a pattern of deliberate efforts to reform or subvert legislative institutions as a means of facilitating neoliberal reforms that do not have sufficient popular support to be actualized through usual democratic channels. These changes, even when temporary, often leave long-term scars on institutions by weakening norms of institutional forbearance.

The Emergency Decree and the Omnibus Bill

Milei has followed this blueprint, insulating the core elements of his agenda from democratic influence. The dismantling of the Argentine state began in earnest in mid-December when the executive branch presented an 83 page Necessity and Urgency Decree (NDU) aimed at repealing over 300 various laws and regulations, facilitating the privatization of core public assets.

This “mega-decree,” Milei claimed, was necessary to “start to undo the huge number of regulations that have held back and prevented economic growth”. It includes sweeping economic deregulation, such as the elimination of regulations on Argentina’s supermarket laws, which required the guarantee of low prices on basic products. It also includes measures to eliminate rent controls. Suggested labour reforms to cut pregnancy leave and increase the job probation period were suspended by the courts in January 2024.

Less than a week after issuing the NDU, the executive branch sent a massive omnibus bill titled Foundations and Starting Points for the Freedom of the Argentine People to Congress for consideration. The bill bundles the major elements of Milei’s neoliberal restructuring initiatives under the heading of a single piece of legislation with 664 articles. It will enable the government to carry out, in a matter of weeks, what would normally take years to achieve if these reforms were considered independently and subjected to the usual legislative scrutiny.

Reforms from the 351 page bill include an extraordinary provision declaring a state of public emergency on matters related to the economy, fiscal balance, social security, defence, health, and administration.

The emergency declaration delegates more than 1,000 extraordinary powers from the legislative to the executive until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of a two-year extension. This provision would enable Milei to make major reforms without having to consult Congress, thus eliminating a major hurdle to the implementation of neoliberal reforms.

Authors of the bill are attempting to facilitate the privatization of 41 state-owned companies across various sectors including energy, aviation, port administration, and agriculture. They also enable the reorganization of public administration, including embedding regulatory cuts from the NDU into law.

Additionally, the omnibus legislation proposes substantial reforms to environmental protection laws. These changes include the weakening of the Glacier Protection Law, allowing the mining of sensitive “periglacial” areas. The bill is presently being rushed through the legislative process by way of Extraordinary sessions of Congress, leading to marathon sittings during Argentina’s usual summer recess period.

“It’s impossible for people to have an idea of the enormous number of proposals Milei has sent,” said Ricardo Gil Laverda, a constitutional lawyer and former Argentine Justice Minister. “They cover dozens and dozens and dozens of laws, often on deep topics.”

To influence negotiations, Milei has threatened to put forward a non-binding referendum if the opposition parties do not agree to the main terms of his restructuring plan. Milei has also threatened to take away social welfare rights from protesters who block streets.

Despite these efforts, however, the reality of Milei’s lack of Congressional support has led him to compromise on some elements of his agenda as it makes its way through the legislative process. Although the structure of the bill remains, opposition politicians have made more than 100 changes to it, including curtailing the scope of the President’s emergency powers to one year rather than two, and retaining YPF, the national oil and gas company, in public hands, despite allowing most other state-owned companies to remain subject to privatization.

Neoliberalism and the Decline of the Legislature

Argentina is not unique. This most recent example of legislative subversion is a familiar tactic used to accommodate neoliberal restructuring, that has been utilized repeatedly by neoliberal reformers in recent decades, including the IMF-sanctioned omnibus bill rammed through Greece’s parliament in 2014.

This approach to the legislature is the consequence of the political limitations of neoliberal policy, which is opposed by considerable segments of society. A blueprint for this strategy is spelled out by former New Zealand Minister of Finance Roger Douglas in his 1993 book, Unfinished Business. The book recalls lessons from his experience implementing a neoliberal agenda dubbed ‘Rogernomics’ in the 1980s against the headwinds of widespread social and political opposition.

Douglas claimed it is “uncertainty, not speed, that endangers the success of structural reform programmes.” Neoliberal reforms should not be passed incrementally, but as a rupture, moving in “quantum leaps” to overcome popular opposition.

Democratic processes are typically slow and deliberate, designed to enable the legislative body to scrutinize the executive, foster compromise, and encourage debate. It was necessary, therefore, to streamline the democratic process to ensure that politicians could neither interfere with, nor demand meaningful changes to, neoliberal reorganization efforts.

Neoliberal governments should confront the legislature, not as an essential element of the process of democracy, but an instrument used by politicians and vested interests to interfere with the operations of the marketplace. “Speed is essential. It is almost impossible to go too fast,” Douglas said. “Once the programme begins to be implemented, don’t stop until you have completed it.”

This tactic did not occur in a vacuum, but emerged intrinsically from the content of a neoliberal theoretical framework that views democratic institutions as an additional layer of state administration to be overcome. Neoliberal thought is deeply skeptical in the capabilities of reason to infer or predict causality. Given the limitations of the mind, society should be governed, not by conscious modelling and careful planning, but according to spontaneous or “invisible hand” forms of social organization, which are the outcome of independent, unplanned individual decisions.

This position is most clearly expressed by Friedrich Hayek, who claimed that parliamentary sovereignty was in fact the “root of the evil” in modern society, since it facilitated the growth of the state. Legislatures constituted one limb of what Milton Friedman called the “iron triangle” of politicians, bureaucrats, as well as corporate and individual special interests that were perpetually reliant upon the government for rents, and therefore had an interest in obstructing market reforms.

‘Instant Democracy’ and the Rise of ‘Neoliberal Populism’

What should we make of Milei’s approach to Congress, then? Is it reflective of a new pattern in neoliberal governance, or merely the extension of an old one? The answer is both. While Milei’s approach clearly shares categorial similarities with the neoliberal legislative blueprint built for speed, his blending of these ideas with a coarse, populist rhetoric grounded in anti-statism, signifies an intensification of these patterns.

Milei’s populist neoliberal worldview contributes to a rising trend among far-right governments around the world to use this rhetoric to rationalize the subversion of democracy. This kind of “neoliberal populism” conflates democratic institutions with political actors, claiming that they are instruments of obstruction for self-serving politicians and bureaucrats.

This is a view Milei has proudly declared. “For me, the state is an enemy, as are the politicians who live off it,” he said. “We will put an end to the parasitic, stupid, useless political caste that is sinking this country.”

Grounded in the same logic as neoliberalism’s conventional demand for freedom from the state, democratic institutions increasingly appear as impediments to the logic of the marketplace. The elimination of cumbersome legislative processes, then, removes the obstacles that restrain market forces, generating popular economic independence, and restoring common-sense. This inverts the logic of democracy, making it appear as though executive rule is necessary to protect the interests of “the People” from Friedman’s “iron triangle.”

The anti-parliamentarism at the core of the neoliberal theoretical outlook has increasingly transformed into a populist program that mobilizes a general dissatisfaction with politicians against democratic institutions as such. Neoliberal politicians, such as Milei, use this reasoning to manufacture the conditions for the ongoing use of emergency powers and the concentration of authority in the executive branch.

The global elite, sensing “the smell of a big privatization wave coming,” are said to be “infatuated” with his take-no-prisoners approach to Congress. Thus, although not a new phenomenon, Milei’s brand of “instant democracy,” which conceives of speed and flexibility as the essence of legislative governance, has the support of both the financial elite as well as a growing populist dimension, giving it the hallmarks of a burgeoning political movement of the most regressive kind.

As the institutional forbearance that restrained most neoliberal governments to stay within the confines of liberal democratic constitutional structures continues to give way to a logic that sees the legislature as subordinate to the market, it is likely that we will continue to see the erosion of democratic standards.

Tom McDowell is a Lecturer in the Department of Politics and Public Administration at Toronto Metropolitan University. He is the author of Neoliberal Parliamentarism: The Decline of Parliament at the Ontario Legislature (University of Toronto Press, 2021).

- **Public Spending Cuts:** Milei has aggressively cut public spending, slashing social welfare, public transport, and basic services subsidies, and terminating public employees’ contracts with less than one year of tenure.

Title:

Content: Streets of Argentina Ablaze with Dissent as Milei’s Controversial Reforms Ignite Outrage

In a stunning turn of events, Argentina has become a battleground for public discontent following President Javier Milei’s introduction of a series of controversial proposals. Thousands of Argentinians have taken to the streets, enraged by the president’s push for drastic cuts to public spending.

Milei’s latest measures, unveiled on Wednesday evening, aim to revolutionize Argentina’s struggling economy through a variety of initiatives. These include deregulating the government and opening up state-run industries for privatization in order to spur both exports and investment.

However, the people’s outrage has manifested in widespread protests, often met with a heavy police presence. Gathering in front of the Argentine Congress, hundreds of demonstrators made their opposition to Milei’s proposals known.

Undeterred by the dissent, Milei appeared on national television to defend his agenda and offer reassurances of a prosperous future. He asserted, “Our objective is to rebuild our nation, restore individual freedom and autonomy, and dismantle the myriad of regulations that have impeded our economic growth for far too long.”

Acknowledging the mounting protests, Milei’s security minister, Patricia Bullrich, announced new measures aimed at maintaining public order. These measures grant federal forces the power to disperse protesters blocking streets without requiring a judicial order, and authorize the police to use video or digital evidence to identify and hold accountable those obstructing public thoroughfares. Moreover, the legislation empowers the state to apportion the costs of mobilizing security forces to the protesters themselves.

Milei’s presidential victory was built upon a campaign centered around reducing public spending. Since assuming office, he has already made significant changes to the country’s financial landscape. The value of the Argentinian currency has been adjusted, contracts of public employees with less than one year of service have been terminated, and the prices of basic services and public transportation have seen notable increases.

FAQ:

Q: What are President Milei’s proposals?

A: President Milei’s proposals include deregulating the government and allowing the privatization of state-run industries to boost exports and investment.

Q: Why are Argentinians protesting?

A: Thousands of Argentinians are protesting against Milei’s proposals due to their belief that the drastic cuts to public spending will adversely impact their lives.

Q: How is the government responding to the protests?

A: In response to the protests, the government has announced new measures to maintain public order, empowering federal forces to disperse protesters without a judicial order and enabling the identification of those obstructing public thoroughfares through video or digital means.

Q: What changes has Milei already implemented?

A: Since taking office, Milei has adjusted the value of the Argentinian currency, terminated contracts of public employees with less than one year of service, and increased the prices of basic services and public transportation.

(Sources: Information gathered from local news outlets)

How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

These austerity measures sparked mass protests.

- **Currency Policy:** He campaigned on “dollarization” (replacing the Argentine peso with the US dollar) as a fix for hyperinflation; this proposal faces opposition and has so far not been implemented.

Title:

Content: Young Argentinians want change. Many see Javier Milei as their best option

Milei, one of two candidates in Sunday’s run-off election, has whipped up a devoted following among young male voters.

Buenos Aires, Argentina – David Urbani was 15 years old, barely in high school, when he first encountered the future far-right presidential candidate Javier Milei.

Now an economics student at the National University of Mar del Plata, Urbani remembers surfing on YouTube when he stumbled on a series of educational videos that Milei had put together, as part of his work as an economist and professor in Buenos Aires at the time.

“I think what moved me the most was the simple way he explained concepts,” Urbani, 20, said, holding up an introductory economics book with Milei’s autograph in it. “The guy is an academic, not a politician.”

A relative newcomer to Argentina’s politics, Milei has nevertheless catapulted to international fame as the dark horse candidate in this year’s presidential elections.

This Sunday, he faces centre-left Economy Minister Sergio Massa in a run-off race so tight that polls show the two candidates in a dead heat.

Part of the fuel behind Milei’s sudden political rise has been the devoted following he has whipped up among young, largely male voters like Urbani. Some are devoted libertarians. Others are merely curious and feeling disaffected with the political establishment.

But while pundits and opposition politicians lambaste Milei for his radical right-wing policy proposals, this young generation of “mileistas” say they’re all in.

“I believe we have to try, and that’s it,” Ramiro Gómez, a 21-year-old information technology (IT) technician from the province of Rosario, said of his decision to back Milei.

Elected to the lower chamber of Argentina’s congress in 2021, Milei was still in his freshman term when he launched his long-shot presidential bid in this year’s race.

But he quickly scored an upset. In August’s open primary, he rocketed to the top spot, earning more votes than establishment figures like Massa and former Security Minister Patricia Bullrich.

Milei has remained a frontrunner ever since. In October’s general elections, he finished in second place behind Massa, earning one of two slots in the run-off race.

Many experts credit Milei’s sudden popularity to the dire straits of Argentina’s economy. The country faces a long-running economic crisis, and inflation has topped 140 percent, driving down the value of Argentina’s national currency, the peso.

To address the crisis, Milei has promised to slash key government ministries, charge fees for Argentina’s public healthcare system, shutter the central bank, and adopt the United States dollar as Argentina’s national currency.

He has also adopted an eyebrow-raising mixture of libertarian and conservative social stances, offering support for banning abortion and legalising organ sales. Popular targets for his sharply worded broadsides include women, the LGBTQ community and even Pope Francis, an Argentinian himself.

Yet, while other right-wing populists like former US President Donald Trump and Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro have struggled to win over younger generations, Milei has consistently led polls of voters between the ages of 16 and 35.

Mark P Jones, a professor in Latin American studies at Rice University, credits the difference to the deep-seated frustration with Argentina’s crisis and Milei’s image as a political outsider.

“When younger voters look at Milei, they see someone who’s fighting against the system and a rebel,” Jones said. “And I think one thing Milei has been able to do is effectively dissociate himself with younger voters from his more conservative policies.”

A ‘chainsaw’ to the status quo

Milei’s most ardent supporters often connect through WhatsApp groups and on social media, where fan accounts feature silhouettes of the candidate’s signature sideburns and memes depict him locked in epic anime battles.

Milei’s eccentricity is central to his brand: He once was the frontman of a Rolling Stones cover band, and he currently owns five cloned dogs, each named after right-wing economists.

Videos have also gone viral during the election showing Milei tearing down Post-It notes with the names of the government ministries he intends to cut and shouting his catchphrase, “Long live f***ing liberty!”

Jones described Milei’s base as motivated less by ideology and more by desperation and exasperation with the traditional political establishment.

His bloc of supporters, Jones explained, is largely composed of middle- and working-class voters in their late teens and 20s who are frustrated with struggling to maintain gainful employment.

“Milei is their vehicle to effectively take a chainsaw to the status quo, but also to perhaps try something different,” Jones said, referencing Milei’s embrace of the chainsaw as a campaign symbol.

Alan Quiroga, 28, who lives in a working-class suburb of Buenos Aires and drives for Uber on his motorcycle, said he was first drawn to Milei when he saw the libertarian on television, speaking passionately about Argentina’s “golden age” in the early 20th century.

“What he wants to implement is what they do in the United States, in Spain, in normal countries,” Quiroga said. “What we are experiencing here is going towards Venezuela, Cuba.”

Though popular with many of his supporters, Milei’s proposal to adopt the US dollar faces steep opposition from the broader public. A September poll showed nearly 70 percent of Argentinians disapproved of the idea.

That month, 170 Argentinian economists also published an open letter predicting that a currency switch would lead to further inflation, mass unemployment and “absurd” increases in Argentina’s $400bn public debt.

‘A good crazy person’

But Milei’s appeal among young voters goes beyond his radical economic plan. The candidate has sought to position himself as a critic of corruption among the political elite, whom he calls “the caste”.

High-ranking members of Argentina’s main political parties have recently faced corruption charges. Last year, for instance, outgoing Vice President Cristina Fernandez was sentenced to six years in jail for fraud.

“The Javier Milei I like the most is the effusive Javier Milei, the honest Javier Milei,” Urbani said. “It’s the Javier Milei who gets mad when he’s faced with lies, faced with dishonest people.”

Milei has a penchant for the dramatic, at times appearing overcome with emotion during his public speeches.

“A good crazy person — that’s how I would describe him,” Quiroga said. “It comes from his heart. He can’t control it.”

Yet, even some of Milei’s longstanding supporters have their doubts about his ability to maintain his credentials as a corruption fighter, especially as he broadens his coalition to include the kinds of establishment figures he frequently criticizes.

Former President Mauricio Macri has offered Milei his backing, as has Bullrich, his former conservative rival in the presidential race.

“When he became involved in politics, without wanting to, he became part of the caste,” said Lucas González, a 28-year-old bookstore owner who said he still supports Milei.

Though Milei has built a strong movement, whether or not it survives will depend on the results of Sunday’s election and how the economy fares in the coming months, said Noam Lupu, a professor of political science at Vanderbilt University who researches Argentina.

“There will always be this kind of libertarian, pro-business vote in Argentina,” Lupu said. “But the sort of anti-establishment, anti-status quo, pro-disruption only succeeds if it continues to feel threatened by the status quo and the political class.”

Urbani disagrees. He believes that Milei has triggered a significant political shift among Argentinian youth that will persist regardless of Sunday’s election results.

“The majority of the youth are Milei voters, and especially boys,” Urbani said. “What is coming for Argentina is very good, because a lot of kids have started to reckon with capitalist ideas, with economic concepts in their heads that they were not talking about before.”

Source: Al Jazeera

What economic issue did Milei want to address?

- **Privatization Plans:** Milei threatened to privatize major state assets — including the oil company YPF — but later shelved some privatization ideas to win moderate Congressional support.

Title:

Content: Argentina’s New Libertarian President, Javier Milei, Is on a Collision Course With His Country’s Powerful Labor Unions

Unions have promised a ‘total strike’ across the country Wednesday to protest Mr. Milei’s efforts to rein in a once-powerful central government and put Argentina on a path to prosperity.

Argentina’s new Libertarian president, Javier Milei, is on a collision course with his country’s powerful labor unions, a conflict that will come to a head Wednesday when the unions have promised a nationwide “total strike” to protest austerity measures enacted by Mr. Milei since he took office last month.

Union leaders speaking to the Financial Times say they expect as many as 200,000 people to take to the streets of Buenos Aires because the new president is “breaking the social contract” by passing an emergency decree that rolled back worker protections, deregulated many industries and began allowing employees to opt out of union-provided health care.

Around 40 percent of the country’s 13 million workers belong to labor unions that have for decades enjoyed considerable political clout under successive governments headed by leaders of the Peronist movement launched by strongman Juan Peron in the 1950s. That power evaporated overnight when Mr. Milei moved into the Casa Rosada, Argentina’s equivalent of the White House, on December 10.

The leader of Argentina’s Construction Workers Union, Gerardo Martínez, told the Financial Times that he hopes the strike —the earliest ever faced by a newly elected president — will force Mr. Milei to roll back some of his reforms and come to the bargaining table with the unions.

“We are aware that inflation [needs to come down.] We are embarrassed to have a country with this level of poverty,” Mr. Martínez said. “But we can’t accept that the cost of reaching economic stability falls solely on the backs of workers and the middle class.”

The tousle-headed Mr. Milei, who famously brandished a chainsaw during the campaign while promising to slash government spending and eliminate entire departments, has made good on some of those promises early in his tenure. He has slashed energy and transport subsidies and sent a bill to Congress that would privatize many of Argentina’s poorly managed state-run enterprises.

Mr. Milei already has backtracked on other issues, however, in an effort to secure the support of moderates in Congress, including taking off the table a plan to privatize the state-run oil giant, YPF.

While perhaps not exactly enamored by some of his fellow countrymen, Mr. Milei has become the darling of international free-marketeers since his full-throated defense of capitalism and the power of entrepreneurship to lift countries out of poverty during the annual World Economic Forum at Davos last week.

In a speech that has since been translated into dozens of languages, Mr. Milei stunned the normally left-leaning audience at Davos by blaming the decades of economic malaise that has plagued Argentina on the “collectivist” policies of his predecessors. Government, he said, is not the solution to what ails societies. Government is the problem, he said.

“The case of Argentina is an empirical demonstration that no matter how rich you may be, how much you may have in terms of natural resources, how skilled your population may be, how educated, or how many bars of gold you may have in the central bank — if measures are adopted that hinder the free functioning of markets, competition, price systems, trade and ownership of private property, the only possible fate is poverty,” he said.

As much as 40 percent of Argentina’s population is described as living in poverty, and inflation is currently running at a rate of 211 percent annually, the highest rate in 32 years. In Latin America, only Venezuela faces worse inflation than Argentina.

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**Political and Institutional Approach:**
- **Anti-Establishment Stance:** Milei presents himself as the enemy of “the caste”—Argentina’s political elite—and calls for a sweeping break with traditional politics, earning support among disaffected, especially younger, voters seeking a “rebel” against the status quo.

- **Limited Congressional Clout:** Lacking a legislative majority, Milei is often forced to compromise or backtrack on radical proposals during negotiations with Congress.

- **Clash with Labor Unions:** Milei’s moves to reduce the strength and size of government, notably at the expense of labor protections, have drawn the ire of Argentina’s powerful unions, resulting in strikes and unrest.

How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

Who has opposed Milei's proposed layoff order?

- **Handling Protests:** In response to widespread dissent and street protests over austerity, his government thus far has stayed firm on its reform trajectory, though opposition remains intense.

**Foreign Policy:**
- **Ideological Realignment:** Initially declared he would ‘not make pacts with communists’ and suggested distancing from China and Brazil (Argentina’s top trade partners).

Title:

Content: Argentina election: Javier Milei's radical proposals face test of reality

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Javier Milei, the anti-establishment politician who cruised to victory in the Argentine presidential election last week, has courted intense controversy with radical, provocative policy proposals and statements.

This led many detractors of the self-styled "anarcho-capitalist" to call his candidacy a "leap into the void".

Now, with the mop-haired president-elect only two weeks away from taking over Latin America's third-largest economy, many are asking, how will his policies and positions face the test of reality?

Taming inflation takes time

Javier Milei had proposed to dollarise the economy and eliminate the Argentine Central Bank as a strategy to "kill" hyper-inflation. This meant making the US dollar the national currency in place of the Argentine peso, whose value, Mr Milei said, had been "melting like blocks of ice in the Sahara".

One obstacle is that ditching the Central Bank and making the US dollar legal tender would need approval from the Argentina's Congress and could even require changing the constitution.

Although Mr Milei convincingly won the presidency, his Libertad Avanza (Freedom Advances) movement is barely the third largest political force in Congress. This suggests difficult negotiations might be in store.

Some economists have also questioned whether Mr Milei's plans are feasible, saying they would weaken his government's ability to manage domestic monetary policy.

Having the US dollar as the Argentine currency would effectively leave interest rate policy in the hands of the US Federal Reserve. Argentina's economy would be more vulnerable to external shocks involving the US dollar, for example sudden rises in prices for oil and fuel imports, which could make internal adjustments even more painful inside the country.

Sceptics also point out that Argentina would need to have in hand the US dollars to replace the pesos. Experts believe this could require anywhere between US $35bn to $50bn which indebted Argentina currently does not have and may not be able to borrow easily.

Mr Milei himself has admitted his "shock adjustment" economic stabilisation recipe could actually take up to two years to bring down inflation. "Saying anything else is lying," he said.

A climate sceptic?

Another topic that had made media headlines was Mr Milei's apparent declaration of himself as a climate change "sceptic", that is, someone who denies the role of humans in global warming.

"I do not deny climate change. What I am saying is that there is a temperature cycle in the history of the Earth... Therefore, all those policies that blame humans for climate change are false," Mr Milei said during a presidential debate last month, causing much commentary and criticism.

In his proposed government programme, one of the numerous ministries he had said he planned to axe would be the existing environment ministry.

Such apparent climate scepticism risked putting Mr Milei sharply out of tune with an international majority of governments and leaders who plan to gather at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai soon to seek urgent solutions to the problems of climate change and global warming.

Pragmatism and the Pope

Before he was elected, Mr Milei virulently attacked Argentine Pope Francis, calling him a "Jesuit who promotes communism", and even the "representative of the evil one [the Devil] on Earth".

Such statements caused frictions with the local Catholic Church and the Vatican.

However, this antagonism appeared to miraculously dissipate only days after his election win, when Mr Milei had what he called a "very friendly" phone call with the Pope, whom he addressed as "Your Holiness", inviting him to visit Argentina in 2024.

Asked in a TV interview about this change of heart, Mr Milei conceded that, when one is president, "there are some things that require greater doses of pragmatism".

No break with China and Brazil

Before his election, Milei had signalled he could freeze ties with Brazil and China, Argentina's two top trading partners, on the grounds that he did "not make pacts with communists".

"I am going to be aligned with the United States, Israel, and the free world," he said.

Not surprisingly, this assertion caused consternation in Beijing and Brasilia, as well as in Argentina.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson was quoted as warning that it would be a "huge foreign policy mistake" for Argentina to cut ties with countries such as China and Brazil.

Mr Milei's predecessor, outgoing left-wing President Alberto Fernández, had carefully nurtured ties with Beijing and had welcomed an invitation to join Brics, the China-led group which also comprises Brazil, Russia, India, and South Africa.

Experts questioned the wisdom of dismantling a relationship that clearly brought benefits to Argentina, and not only by China being a top market for Argentina's soybean, meat and grains.

China was also helping to prop up Argentina's financial reserves with a major currency swap deal - significant support for a country already heavily indebted to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Days after the election, however, there seemed to be clear signs that no major break in relations was planned. The president-elect received a personal letter of "congratulations and good wishes" from Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mr Milei himself made a point of thanking Xi on social media.

Mr Milei's pick for foreign minister, Diana Mondino, also dismissed as "nonsense" any suggestion that there would be a rupture in "commercial relations" with China or Brazil.

In Brazil, Mr Milei's invitation for former President Jair Bolsonaro to attend his 10 December inauguration was interpreted as "unfriendly" towards Brazil's current left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

But Milei has since said Lula would be "well-received", if he wanted to come.

Dictatorship denial

Mr Milei and his vice-presidential running-mate Victoria Villarruel also ignited intense controversy during the campaign with their position regarding Argentina's 1976-83 military dictatorship.

Defying traditional positions held by Argentina's government and society for the last 40 years, Mr Milei caused outrage by contesting the generally accepted estimate of those abducted and "disappeared" in the dictatorship - 30,000 - asserting the actual number was closer to 9,000.

The candidate argued that the political violence of the 1970s in Argentina was a two-sided "war" in which "the forces of the state committed excesses but the terrorists [anti-government guerrillas] ... [also] committed crimes against humanity".

This equivalence of presentation of the two sides raised howls of protest from groups like the Plaza de Mayo mothers and grandmothers of disappeared persons.

This was just another striking way in which the Milei-Villarruel duo were trying to shake up the political status quo in Argentina. The next four years will show if they can do it.

What reason did Milei give about not engaging with China, Cuba, and Venezuela?

However, diplomatic pragmatism prevailed—he has since moderated this stance, inviting dialogue.

- **“Western Pivot”:** Reaffirmed his alignment with the US, Israel, and “the free world” in international affairs.

What are some of the "liberal democracies" that the Milei administration prioritizes partnerships?

**Societal and Institutional Impact:**
- **Uncertainty for Science & Public Services:** The science sector and public services face budget threats, with the future of state-supported research and welfare institutions uncertain under Milei’s aggressive market-oriented reforms.

Title:

Content: Far-Right Trump Admirer To Be Argentina’s Next President

A far-right, social-media-using president-elect who admires Donald Trump will take office in Argentina, which has the third-largest economy in Latin America, on Dec. 10.

“The whole world was watching! I am very proud of you. You will turn your Country around and truly Make Argentina Great Again!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform concerning libertarian economist Javier Milei’s victory on Sunday.

The White House said President Joe Biden called Milei to congratulate him on his win and spoke of “the strong relationship between the United States and Argentina on economic issues, on regional and multilateral cooperation, and on shared priorities, including advocating for the protection of human rights, addressing food insecurity and investing in clean energy.”

Milei, a 53-year-old former television pundit, won nearly 56 percent of the vote in a presidential run-off, beating Sergio Massa, the center-left minister overseeing the country’s troubled economy under current President Alberto Fernandez.

Voters Call For End to Economic Misery

“Voters in this nation of 46 million demanded a drastic change from a government that has sent the peso tumbling, inflation skyrocketing, and more than 40 percent of the population into poverty,” The Washington Post reported. “With Milei, Argentina takes a leap into the unknown — with a leader promising to shatter the entire system,”

During an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson in September, Milei called on Trump to “continue with his fight against socialism, because he’s one of the few who fully understood that the battle is against socialism, that the battle is against the statists.”

In his first speech as president-elect, Milei told Argentines that “the model of decadence has reached its end. There is no turning back.”

“Enough of the impoverishing power of the caste,” he said. “Today we once again embrace the model of liberty, to once again become a world power.”

Milei will take office on the 40th anniversary of Argentina’s return to democracy after the fall of its punishing military dictatorship.

“We don’t have anything to lose,” Tomás Limodio, a 36-year-old business owner who voted for Milei in Buenos Aires on Sunday, told The Washington Post. “We’ve had this type of government for so many years, and things are only getting worse.”

John Flores, 24, a nursing student, said: “Massa wants to fix the problems that he himself created. “We’re tired, especially the young people.”

Concerns About the Future

Others are worried about Argentina having a president who has called Pope Francis, a fellow Argentine, an “evil” leftist, climate change a “socialist lie” and says he will hold a referendum to undo the three-year-old law that legalized abortion in the overwhelmingly Catholic country.

Bolivia's former President Evo Morales said he would never “wish success to fascism, ultra-conservatism and neoliberalism,” Reuters reported.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro described Milei's win in a post on X, formerly Twitter, as “sad for Latin America.”

Veronica Cerminaro, a 44-year-old public sector employee in Argentina, told The Washington Post about Milei: “With that man, I don’t see a future for anyone.”

What does Milei promote in terms of healthcare and education?

Individuals to pay for their own services

- **Public Reaction:** There is significant polarization: while many business owners, young people, and free-market advocates embrace Milei as a hope for change, many others—particularly those affected by subsidy cuts and labor reforms—have taken to the streets in protest, fearing the social costs of rapid liberalization.

How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

Who has opposed Milei's proposed layoff order?

**Implications:**
Milei’s presidency marks a radical libertarian experiment in a nation long characterized by heavy state intervention.

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Argentina presidential election: A runoff of economic ideals

Tobias Käufer
November 17, 2023

Argentina's Economic Minister Sergio Massa and libertarian Javier Milei face off in a nail-biting presidential runoff. The two candidates have radically different solutions to Argentina's economic woes.

https://p.dw.com/p/4YuiH

Economic policy is the key issue in Argentina's runoff election on Sunday, as voters decide between the economic policy of current Economy Minister Sergio Massa and his rival Javier Milei, a far-right libertarian economist known for his radical free-market liberalism.

Argentina's dire economic figures recently reported by the National Statistics Institute (INDEC) may speak for a change after the depressed Latin American country's cost of living surged a staggering 142.7% over the year. The poverty rate in September stood at 38.9%, according to the Buenos Aires-based Pontificia Universidad Catolica (UCA).

Argentina unveils new 2,000-peso bill as inflation bites

Milei's radical ideas for Argentina's economy

Argentina has for decades been plagued by financial chaos and weak economic growth which opposition candidate Javier Milei says is the result of successive left-leaning governments and their failed socialist economic policy.

"Those who have led us into inflation and poverty are now trying to instigate fear [among the population]. Argentina was a world power at the end of the 19th century, then came the decline under the socialist governments," Milei said this week at a campaign event in Rosario in the province of Santa Fe.

He's repeatedly accused his center-left rival of running a fear campaign that would denounce him as an ultra-right hardliner who would seek to undo basic rights and democracy in Argentina. In his campaign, Milei is styling himself as the defender of the country against populism as he aims to "reduce privileges, not rights."

Milei has attracted a lot of attention for his promises to radically overhaul the Argentine government and economy with a plan to eliminate the nation's central bank and replace its currency with the US dollar. He wants to significantly reduce the state apparatus, lift laws and regulations on the economy, and privatize state services. Other controversial proposals from his camp include liberalizing organ trade and privatizing Argentina's territorial waters.

With his radical free-market orthodoxy, Milei hopes to spur economic growth and subsequently lift more Argentines out of widespread poverty.

Massa's gentler economic reforms for Argentina

Sergio Massa is a veteran of Argentine politics and the new leader of the Peronist political movement which is based on the left-wing ideas of former President Juan Peron, who ruled Argentina several times between the 1940s and 1970s. The so-called Peronists have won nine of the last 12 free and fair presidential elections.

Massa has replaced Alberto Fernandez as the Peronist frontrunner after the hapless president voluntarily resigned in April this year. He was the winner of the first round of voting in October after making a surprise comeback from poor pre-election polls capturing nearly 37% of the vote, compared with 30% for Milei.

Massa, who has led Argentina's economy for more than a year, pushed through several policies in support of his candidacy, including programs that return sales tax to certain workers and eliminate income tax for others. He has promised to maintain some economic policies that conservative economists criticize, such as large subsidies for Argentines' energy costs.

In addition, he hopes to generate enough tax and trade surpluses to help negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on restructuring Argentina's massive debt.

Argentina's untapped economic potential

Argentina has much to offer to the rest of the world but has yet to leverage it for the benefit of the entire population. This includes large lithium deposits crucial for the transition to e-mobility, as well as offshore oil reserves and abundant natural gas reserves. Moreover, it has the potential to produce green hydrogen, its farming sector is competitive, and the country has a young, well-educated population.

"The biggest challenge for the next government is to develop an initial stabilization plan and then push through a series of structural reforms to profoundly change the economic system," Agustin Etchebarne, director of the Libertad y Progreso Foundation in Buenos Aires, told DW.

Etchebarne is part of a group of economists who condone radical structural changes to the economy to lift Argentina out of its current crisis. Others, including about 100 renowned international economic experts, are more skeptical.

In an open letter recently, some high-profile economists the likes of Thomas Piketty from France, Jayati Ghosh from India, and the former Finance Minister of Colombia, Jose Antonio Ocampo, have warned Milei's proposals are "full of risks that could potentially be very harmful to the Argentine economy and the Argentine people."

This article was originally written in German.

What does Milei promote in terms of healthcare and education?

Individuals to pay for their own services

suspended 366 decrees to ease economic controls and reduce spending.

His policies are rapidly reshaping Argentina’s economic landscape, governance structures, and social compact.

Yet institutional limitations, societal backlash, and political opposition are tempering the extent and speed of reform, rendering Argentina a high-stakes test case for market-driven change in Latin America.

Title:

Content: Javier Milei’s Radical Agenda Threatens Argentina’s Scientific Community

As the 22 October presidential election in Argentina draws near, scientists in the country are growing increasingly concerned about the potential implications of front runner Javier Milei’s radical agenda. One of his most controversial proposals is the complete shutdown of the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), the country’s main science agency and a critical source of funding for over 12,000 researchers across 300 institutions.

Milei, a libertarian candidate often compared to former US President Donald Trump and former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, argues that shutting down CONICET and relying on private investment for scientific research could alleviate Argentina’s ongoing fiscal crisis. He has also proposed privatizing other sectors, including health and the environment, and even suggested allowing individuals to sell their organs for profit.

The scientific community in Argentina, home to Latin America’s third-largest economy, is deeply alarmed by the potential consequences of Milei’s presidency. The National Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences in Buenos Aires has stressed the importance of state investment in science, highlighting that leading developed countries heavily invest in scientific research as a means to drive economic development and tackle poverty.

Milei’s rise to prominence has been fueled by Argentina’s economic turmoil, with high inflation rates, escalating debt to international creditors, and significant levels of poverty. While he may currently be leading in the polls, experts remain skeptical of the figures, and his opponents are still actively campaigning to garner support.

If Milei were to become president, many fear a massive brain drain as talented researchers seek opportunities abroad. Argentina has a long history of struggling with brain drain during times of economic crises, with previous instances leading to mass emigration of scientists to Europe and the United States. While Argentina still maintains a relatively high number of researchers per capita in Latin America, the loss of these talented individuals would undoubtedly hinder the country’s scientific progress.

As the election date approaches, the fate of Argentina’s scientific community hangs in the balance. The outcome will determine not only the future of CONICET but also the country’s ability to sustain scientific advancements and retain its brightest minds. It is a critical moment for the scientific community as they await the decision that could shape Argentina’s trajectory in the years to come.

**Summary of Key Nuggets from Text on Javier Milei’s Policy Agenda and Approach:**

**Economic Reforms:**
- Milei’s main economic goal is achieving a **zero budget deficit** within a year.

Title:

Content: December 28, 14: 30
Opinions
“No money ”: the new President of Argentina introduced the first economic reforms
Elena Kondratieva about the shock measures of Javier Miley in a country with 40% poverty
President of Argentina Javier Miley
Argentina ’ s new president, Javier Miley, in his first speech as head of state, warned the country of the need for shock measures, and in December the first phase of his plan to save the economy took shape.
True, it does not contain many election promises and there are things absolutely opposite – the new government is going to raise export duties and taxes contrary to the ideals of libertarianism, which the Argentine leader calls himself a representative of.
The authorities attribute the inconsistencies to the difficult economic situation, which requires the adoption of unpopular measures.
Both Miley and his economy minister, Luis Caputo, said the measures they were taking ran counter to their beliefs.
But, according to them, this is the lesser evil – on the other side of the scale they call hyperinflation and catastrophic impoverishment of the population.
On the third day of the government, December 13, Caputo announced the first steps of the new government, including a devaluation - the official rate of the dollar soared from 366 pesos to 800 pesos.
Currency restrictions in force in the country since 2019 have been maintained.
The authorities admit that there are no conditions for their cancellation until the government solves the problem with the debt instruments of the Central Bank.
Nevertheless, the devaluation, stronger than many experts and ordinary people expected, allowed to narrow the gap between the official and the so-called blue exchange rate, which is used in the informal exchange market.
Today, the latter is about 1,000 pesos per dollar.
About the same time he was on the eve of the announcement of Caputo.
The devaluation, combined with the end of the programs of freezing of prices, spurred the already high inflation.
According to experts, by the end of December it will be about 30%.
In November, the price increase was 12.8%.
Miley ’ s government calls its main task for next year a zero budget deficit.
The task is extremely ambitious, given that in October the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted that Argentina, with the necessary reforms, will be able to reach a surplus budget only by 2028.
To achieve this goal, the new government, apparently, will have to work hard with the same chainsaw, which has become a symbol of Miley ’ s election campaign.
In the course of the election campaign, the president has already emphasized that the state and the so-called caste, the establishment of the country, will pay for his spending reduction program, and "people will not be touched."
As the first measures show, this principle has proved to be very broadly interpreted.
So, among the first measures, Caputo announced the gradual abolition of subsidies for electricity, gas and public transport.
Today, Argentinian households with low and middle incomes pay about 15-20% of the cost of electricity.
According to the plan of the authorities, the subsidies will be completely abolished by December 2026, but in 2024 they are going to spend $2.5 billion less on them.
Transportation subsidies are expected to save $1 billion next year.
Another article for saving will be government orders for infrastructure projects.
The government promises to abandon them completely.
“There is no money ” is a phrase that Miley constantly repeats and which his supporters print on T-shirts.
Reductions also affected the state apparatus.
The government of Miley changed the number of ministries from 18 to 9, almost halved the number of departments and announced the termination of more than 5 thousand labor contracts concluded in 2023.
Reforms signed by the President
The next step of the Mileus government was an emergency presidential decree, which was signed on December 20.
The Argentine Constitution gives the Head of State the power to change legislation without the prior approval of Parliament in an exceptional situation.
Miley, under this pretext, decided to include in the decree more than 300 articles that cancel or amend existing laws.
The head of state called the main goal of the document deregulation of the economy
For example, the government abolished price controls, including on food and health insurance programs.
Suppliers of the latter after the publication of the decree have already announced an increase in the cost of services by 40%.
Introducing his decree, Miley said that the state will no longer be able to restrict exports.
Deregulation also affected the aviation industry, the rental market, labor relations, tourism and various industries, including wine and sugar.
Some paragraphs raised serious questions about the justification of their inclusion in the emergency decree.
Thus, the document gives football clubs the right to become joint-stock companies.
Miley himself in an interview with LN + explained the need for this item by the fact that the measure will attract foreign investment to the country.
For the sake of investment, the government also repealed a law restricting the ownership of land by foreigners.
The decree is due to come into force on December 29 and can only be repealed by parliament if both chambers vote in favor.
It is not yet clear what will happen to the bill in Congress.
Miley's "Freedom Comes" coalition holds 37 of 257 seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 8 of 72 in the Senate.
They have allies in the opposition, mainly in the Alliance Together for Change (24 senators and 93 deputies), but they may not be enough.
The public also met the decree ambiguously, although Miley himself believes that he can successfully bring it to a referendum if blocked by parliament.
After the announcement of the reform in different parts of the capital, there was a noise from blows to pots - a traditional form of protest in Latin America.
In addition, opposition to the decree was expressed by the largest trade unions in Argentina, not excluding the strike, restrictions on which, incidentally, were imposed by the signed decree.
Mega-bill
Miley ’ s government completed the month with the introduction of a bill to parliament with a package of reforms covering not only the economy, but also criminal law, as well as electoral law, health care, education and defense.
In total, the document contains more than 660 articles.
Especially for its consideration, the executive branch convened an extraordinary session of parliament, which will last from December 26 to January 31.
Among the proposed reforms, I will highlight the increase in export duties.
In his first speech as head of state, Miley promised that the tightening of belts will fall on the shoulders of the state, not private business.
Nevertheless, the first package of bills included the establishment of a duty of 15% for agricultural products, which are now not subject to fees, and an increase from 31% to 33% of the duty for flour and oil.
The authorities promise to subsequently cancel the fees from exporters, but for now the government, they say, needs funds to get rid of the budget deficit.
There is no deadline for the fulfillment of the promise made to exporters.
The bill also included a tax amnesty and the privatization of 41 state-owned companies, including oil and gas YPF, airline Aerolineas Argentinas, Banco Nación Bank, geostationary communications operator ARSAT and railway company Ferrocarriles Argentinos.
Miley noted that the YPF process will take place after reforms within the company, which should increase its value.
This will be his second privatisation.
In 2012, the government of Cristina Fernández de Kirchner decided to return YPF into the hands of the state, expropriating 51% of the shares of the Spanish company Repsol under the pretext of insufficient investment in the country ’ s oil and gas sector.
The conflict with the Spaniards was settled by the payment of compensation in the amount of $5 billion back in 2014, but in 2023 the consequences of the expropriation made themselves felt again – in September, the court of the southern district of New York ordered Argentina to pay $16 billion to the Burford Capital fund, which bought the bankrupt after the nationalization of the company, which owned 25% of the shares of YPF.
Miley ’ s emergency decree stated that the state ’ s share in Aerolineas Argentina ’ s shares would be transferred to its employees.
After that, the country ’ s largest airline, which has also been through privatization and renationalization, will stop receiving support from the budget, thanks to which, in particular, air traffic on not the most popular routes was maintained.
Given the emergence of new competitors in the context of deregulation of the aviation industry, Aerolineas Argentina is likely to be forced to reduce the number of destinations in the country.
At the same time, despite the declared "No Money", the bill provides for a reduction in tax on personal property and exemption from tax on the sale of real estate purchased before 2018.
Where to find money
The bill also included a painful topic for Argentina's foreign debt.
The government proposes to abolish the rule that obliges the executive branch to obtain permission from Parliament to issue dollar bonds in excess of the amount specified in the budget.
Argentina ’ s debt remains an acute problem for the country.
On December 21, the country made another payment as part of an agreement to settle its debt to the IMF.
The loan was issued to the country at the request of Mauricio Macri, who in May 2018, as head of state, turned to the IMF for help against the background of a sharp fall in the national currency.
The funds for the December tranche of $921 million to Argentina were provided by the Andean Development Corporation (ACR).
The country cannot afford to pay from its own reserves.
Already in the period from January 9 to February 1, 2024, Argentina will have to make new payments totaling more than $2.8 billion.
The government is trying to negotiate with the fund to change the agreement, but this does not negate the need to find funds to repay the payments.
One of the sources could be the $6.5 billion currency swap that China has promised to provide to the past government of Argentina.
The Miley administration is trying to gain access to it, but there seems to be little progress so far.
The situation for Argentina is complicated by the numerous statements of Miley and members of his coalition about relations with China.
During the election campaign and after the election, the head of state repeatedly said that he did not intend to promote relations with Beijing, because he did not want to do business with the Communists.
In addition, the foreign Minister of Argentina Diana Mondino said that the country will not enter the BRICS, where it was accepted at the end of the August summit of the group.
Beijing may also be concerned about the Miley administration ’ s refusal to accept government orders for infrastructure projects that fall under the purview of Chinese investors.
After taking office, Javier Miley and his team tried to mitigate past statements.
The new administration invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to the inauguration, which took place on December 10.
He himself, however, did not come, but Miley held a meeting with the Chinese delegation and sent a letter to the Chinese leader, in which he asked him to help gain access to the currency swap.
Another source of financing for Argentina could be the New Development Bank (NDB) of the BRICS, a formal application for accession to which was submitted in October by the then President of the country Alberto Fernandez.
However, the Miley administration apparently decided to freeze the process, since at the end of November Mondino said that Argentina was unable to join the NDB due to the inability to contribute capital.
It is possible that the government of Miley will decide to change its position, but so far this has not been reported.
Several Argentine experts in conversation with me complained that the Latin American country cannot afford to be guided by ideological prejudices in foreign policy, and regretted the missed opportunities in refusing to develop relations with China and BRICS.
Ghostly light at the end of the tunnel
It is possible to evaluate the reforms proposed by Miley differently, but we can definitely say that the Argentines in the coming months will have a hard time.
The government itself recognizes this.
In his first speech as head of state, Javier Miley openly said that the shock measures he proposed would lead to higher unemployment and poverty, as well as lower economic activity and real wages, but then "there will be light at the end of the tunnel."
At the same time, Miley does not call the timing of the onset of a bright
In an interview after the election, he said that it will take at least a year and a half to solve the problem of inflation.
In recent weeks, members of the administration have refrained from making any predictions, promising only to support the most vulnerable segments of the population and to do everything possible to ensure that the period of decline in economic activity passes as quickly as possible.
It remains an open question whether the residents of the country, where, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Census Indec, the poverty rate is already 40%, will have enough patience.
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What issue did Milei want to address without printing money?

This means dramatic cuts to public spending and a commitment not to raise or create new taxes, notably rejecting a tax on private property.

Title:

Content: Ribbon
January 10 15: 42
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Federal News Agency /
Javier Miley is the most eccentric figure of modern Argentine politics.
A convinced libertarian, Doctor of Economics, a follower of the Austrian school, a member of the Argentine Congress from the Freedom, Forward! coalition, during the 2021 election campaign, he promised voters to abandon the parliamentary salary, which currently amounts to 205,000 Argentine pesos (due to the gap in quotations of the official and unofficial dollar exchange rate, in rubles this amount can be from 73 to 140 thousand).
The newly minted deputy kept his promise - on January 12, his first salary will be raffled in the "lottery".
On a specially created site "My Word" has already left more than 250 thousand applications for participation in the draw.
To date, the counter has recorded a million two hundred thousand visits.
A special correspondent of the FAN international editorial office in Argentina tells about the eccentric initiative of the newly minted parliamentarian.
“Let it all be decided by chance. ”
The only requirement for those who want to participate in the drawing of the deputy salary is to be over 18 years old and not to be legal entities.
Sufficiency, political beliefs, gender, profession - all this does not matter.
People simply upload their passport data and get a certain number that will participate in the draw.
“I refused the idea of targeted donation, because it is too common political ploy, ” Milei said at a meeting with Argentine media. – I believe that it is immoral to manage in this way with state (that is, not belonging to me) money.
It goes against my philosophy of life.
Let everything be decided by chance, and my participation in this will be as neutral and detached as possible. ”
The recording will be open until 10 am on January 12.
And at 19.00, at the next open lesson of the “popular economy ” – which Javier Miley is going to hold right on the beach in the resort town of Mar del Plata – the winner will be announced in the presence of a notary.
All his subsequent salaries, the deputy promises to play in the same way.
Miley at the point of attack
Javier Miley claims to be an anarchocapitalist and a supporter of minarchism (Political ideology, which involves the involvement of the state only for the protection of life, property and contractual relations. – Note FAN).
The son of a housewife and a bus driver, he came into politics from academia and the “elite ” stratum of Argentine economists — with experience in the Association of Private Pension Funds (AFJP), the Argentine branch of HSBC Holdings plc, the WEF and private financial institutions.
In the parliamentary elections of 2021, Milei ran for deputy in the capital district and scored 17.04% of the vote.
This is a very significant result for an independent candidate who began his political career almost before the elections and, as he himself says, “completely by accident ” – as a result of a skirmish with a representative of the ruling party during a round table on one of the Argentine TV channels.
Milea ’ s harsh statements (as well as the leather jacket in which he went to meetings with voters and debates with opponents) quickly made him very popular among young people and those Argentines who are tired of traditional politics and its predictable discourse.
Milea ’ s “fan club ” was not frightened by the abundance of numbers in his speeches, nor by the eccentric candidate ’ s love for complex concepts, which he generously subdued with obscene expressions; nor by the promise to“ burn the Central Bank ” (perhaps this is his only election promise that has not yet been fulfilled).
“In my first month in Congress, I managed to do what I told my constituents.
On December 9 (this is officially recorded), I stopped working in the private business in order to completely exclude possible interference with my parliamentary activities.
I voted against subsidies.
He opposed a new tax on private property, precisely because he promised not to vote for creating new taxes or raising old ones.
He signed the draft law on the reduction of VAT.
And now I will play my salary – because I also promised, ” Milei said.
From Love to Hate
Although Miley and his Freedom Forward party are formally in opposition to the ruling Frente de Todos coalition, the opposition Juntos por el Cambio party does not always share the position of an eccentric economist, especially on key issues.
So, his decision to refuse the deputy salary caused indignation from another deputy - Sabrina Ahmechet, who also represents the capital district in the lower house of the Argentine parliament.
“What does he live on and how is he going to pay the bills? ” asked Sabrina indignantly on Twitter, and immediately clarifies his position.
After all, if not, then only the rich will be engaged in politics, as was mostly the case in the 19th century. ”
Another parliamentary lady, Patricia Bulrich, who heads the coalition “Together for Change ”, Javier Miley clearly favors.
One way or another, the more active the polemics, the more brightly the figure at the center of the discussion is highlighted.
And the more political capital that Miley will surely find where to invest in the medium and long term.
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Comment

- He has implemented a **severe devaluation** of the Argentine peso, **halved the official exchange rate** against the US dollar, and removed various price controls, including those on energy tariffs, which led to an immediate rise in prices but is viewed as a move towards “fair prices.”
- Milei is committed to **shock therapy**—fast, sweeping, and drastic market-oriented reforms to stabilize the economy, even if it means short-term pain for much of society.

Title:

Content: Russian Federation
Moscow
+ 2 °
Worldwide19 December 2023 10: 39
How Javier Miley treats Argentina with shock therapy: his reforms were compared to poison
During the first week in power, he sharply raised gasoline prices, devalued the peso and canceled preferential travel in public transport.
Javier Miley
Photo: REUTERS
The new Argentine president, Javier Miley, began his career.
Only a week has passed since his inauguration, and he has already announced so many reforms that another head of state would have been enough for a whole year.
However, this is not surprising, because even during the election campaign, he promised to conduct shock therapy in the country, and, having taken office, said that before the patient (in the sense of the Argentine economy) will get much better, he must get much worse.
Local wit assure that Miley gives the country poison in a narrow and high glass - so that it can be drunk only in small sips.
I mean, the hardest times are yet to come.
TIME OF HONEST PRICES
First of all, the new government reduced subsidies for public transport and electricity.
The economy minister said the tariffs had been “artificially lowered ” until now, and now it was time for fair prices.
Miley added that the previous authorities allegedly deceived citizens for preferential travel in public transport had to pay wild inflation.
Argentinian motorists, however, are also not happy now.
Gasoline prices have risen twice since the beginning of December: the first time by 15%, and then another 37%.
In addition, the government of Miley went on a serious devaluation of the national currency and halved the official exchange rate of the peso against the dollar.
However, the US currency can still be bought only on the black market (and at an even higher rate).
The reduction in the number of government officials was one of the main points of Miley ’ s election program and the reduction in the number of federal ministries from 19 to 9 is generally welcomed by the population.
Rather, it is about their consolidation.
Thus, culture, education, social and labor policy will now be concentrated in one ministry of human capital.
Called the police?
But the refusal to index pensions and fund public works caused serious outrage among a significant part of the population.
In particular, a sharp protest was expressed by the largest trade unions in Argentina.
Disgruntled voters are already preparing for the first protest against Miley ’ s policies.
Mass actions will be held in Buenos Aires today, December 20.
But even here, the head of state, nicknamed “El Loko ” in the press (that is, the Mad Man), prepared a number of surprises for his subjects.
He said that he had developed a new protocol to combat demonstrations.
Protesters will now be identified by “video, digital or manual surveillance ” and then billed for sending security forces to protect the order.
In other words, you can not only get under the batons of law enforcement officers, but also pay them overtime.
One thing is clear: Javier Miley needs money first, preferably in hard currency.
The comment of one of the representatives of the US presidential administration Joe Biden is indicative here.
After Miley ’ s meeting with the American leader, the White House said it was ready to help Argentina “with the development of lithium mining. ”
In general, it looks like one of the strategic sectors of the Argentine economy (and lithium is called one of the main resources of the 21st century), Javier ’ s senior comrades have already laid a paw.
It also announced the upcoming privatization of the national railway network of Argentina, as well as the sale of two aircraft, which flew representatives of the former government.
NEIGHBOURS ARE WARNING
Interestingly, Javier Miley has become a white crow (or black sheep) among the other leaders of South America, where the socialists have won recently.
And although El Loko has chosen not to quarrel with its neighbors so far, some of them have already expressed their attitude to the victory of the pro-American anarcho-capitalist in Argentina.
- Sad news for Latin America, - lamented the President of Colombia Gustavo Petro. - Neoliberals have nothing to offer society and can not answer the pressing problems of mankind.
With even sharper criticism, Miley was attacked by his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro.
“He is a representative of the far-right forces that are proposing a colonial project for Argentina, and even intend to spread it throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, ” Maduro said. – We are not going to remain silent, because the coming to power of a right-wing extremist, subordinated to North American imperialism and seeking to end the state and social rights is a huge threat.
SPIRITUAL CASES
On the eve of taking office, he converted to Judaism.
According to the Argentine newspaper La Razón, two weeks before his inauguration, Miley attended a Jewish service in Buenos Aires and received a blessing from the rabbi to accept the new faith.
Thus, the 53-year-old Argentinian converted from Catholicism to Judaism.
Two days later, Miley flew to New York, where he visited the grave of the famous Jewish rabbi Menachem Mendl Schneerson.
The publication notes that taking into account the residence in Argentina of the largest Jewish community in Latin America [about 220 thousand people – approx.
The newly elected head of state openly demonstrates how committed he is to “deepening cultural and political ties with Israel. ”
In addition, following the example of Trump, Miley has repeatedly promised that he will move the Argentine embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, which other countries do not do because of the unclear status of East Jerusalem (it is also claimed by the Palestinian autonomy).
PHOTOS IN SUBJECT
Caputo to you all!
Santiago Caputo Photo: screenshot
This image shows Santiago Caputo, a political adviser to Javier Miley and, according to some local media, the “gray cardinal ” of his team.
Particular attention is drawn to the tattoo on his right hand, where in pure Russian (albeit with spelling errors) it is written literally the following: "Hut, cottage and savings book, boat, car and garage will calm my blazh."
And below is a specific star, which in Russia is associated with the criminal subculture of thieves in law.
It is known that Caputo ’ s proverb was gleaned from the book “Encyclopedia of Russian Criminal Tattoos ”, which one of his friends gave him for some reason.
But what attracted the thieves romance of such a respected person and whether he lives “according to concepts ” is still a mystery behind seven seals.
READ ALSO
The new President of Argentina gave back: Javier Miley refuses odious promises
The president with a chainsaw tempered the ardor (more)

What economic issue did Milei want to address?

- He has promised the "belt-tightening" will fall on the state (through spending cuts and layoffs) rather than on private businesses.

- Long-term, Milei has floated **dollarization**—adopting the US dollar and closing the Central Bank, arguing the peso has caused chronic inflation since the 1930s.

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Content: Site version
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"No money."
Javier Miley took office as President of Argentina and promised the country shock therapy
Published by:
Javier Miley, who calls himself an anarcho-capitalist and libertarian, took office during the inauguration ceremony in Buenos Aires.
On Sunday morning, Miley was sworn in at the National Congress building, and outgoing President Alberto Fernandez put a presidential ribbon over his shoulder.
Some of the assembled legislators chanted the word “Freedom! ”
During the election campaign, Miley promised to purge the political establishment of corruption, liquidate the Central Bank, which he accused of printing money and fueling inflation, and replace the rapidly depreciating peso with the US dollar.
However, during his inaugural speech, Miley said that the country is waiting for tough austerity measures.
“Unfortunately, I have to tell you again: there is no money.
The main thing is that there is no alternative to austerity measures and there is no alternative to shock therapy, ” he said. – We know that in the short term the situation will worsen.
But then we will see the fruits of our efforts. ”
The 53-year-old star of Tiktok, a musician, economist and TV presenter with ruffled hair and thick sideburns, was compared with former presidents of the United States and Brazil - Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro, respectively.
Such a reputation he earned with his sharp style and contradictory statements.
However, during a recent visit to the United States, Miley did not meet with Trump, but had lunch with another ex-president, Bill Clinton, and then met with one of Joe Biden ’ s security aides.
It was the dinner with Clinton, who is on almost all issues on the opposite side of the political spectrum from Miley, that was the main surprise of the first foreign trip of the newly elected president of Argentina, which took place even before he took office.
During the first part of the election campaign, Miley, in particular, called for “throwing the sick peso for the sake of the US dollar ” and promised to burn the Central Bank to end the“ cancer of inflation ”.
He also opposed abortion, advocated carrying firearms, intended to sever ties with Argentina ’ s key trading partners China and Brazil, and questioned the number of victims of the military dictatorship and denied that human activity was the cause of climate change.
But after the first round of the presidential election, in which he took second place, Miley somewhat “slowed down ” and tried to present the country with the image of a somewhat more restrained politician.
Now, having made their choice, the Argentines, almost certainly, are wondering: how exactly will Miley behave, taking the presidency.
His moderation may be due to pragmatic considerations, given the magnitude of the task before him, his political inexperience and the need to somehow cooperate with other parties to implement his program in Congress, where his party is only in third place in terms of the number of seats occupied.
The victory of the unorthodox candidate surprised many.
Analysts believe that Argentines have embraced the ideas of a political newcomer in the hope that he will help cope with the country ’ s ongoing economic problems.
Thus, they decided to oust the followers of President Perón ’ s political ideas, which had dominated the country for decades.
In Argentina, inflation is three-digit, and about 40% of the population lives in poverty.
Among the foreign guests who came to the inauguration ceremony of Miley was the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Miley greeted him after the inauguration ceremony near.
This is his first visit to Latin America since the start of a large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Miley has repeatedly expressed support for Ukraine and condemned Russian aggression.
“This is a new beginning for Argentina, and I wish President Miley and the entire Argentine people to surprise the world with their successes, ” Zelensky wrote in his telegram channel.
In Buenos Aires, Zelensky also met with the presidents of three Latin American states – Paraguay, Uruguay and Ecuador – as well as with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Original article: https: / / www.nur.kz / world / 2050136-deneg-net-haver-miley-vstupil-v-dolzhnost-prezidenta-argentiny-i-obeschal-country-shokovuyu-terapiyu /

dollarizing the Argentinian currency
closing the central bank

What economic issue did Milei want to address?

- He acknowledged inflation will not be solved quickly, estimating at least a year and a half for meaningful progress.

**Political and Institutional Reforms:**
- Milei dismissed all officials appointed in 2023, signaling a **house-cleaning of the bureaucracy**.

Title:

Content: Areas of instability: what is happening in South America today
Problems in the US Backyard
“Depending on how you call these disputed territories, you can understand whose side you are on in this long-standing dispute, ” the experts joked.
In 1883, the Falkland Islands were occupied by the United Kingdom.
Their inhabitants, by the way, in the referendum of 2013 wished to remain subjects of the then Her Majesty.
Argentina, in turn, tried in 1982 to regain control of its Malvinas Islands.
The fighting lasted 74 days.
Nearly 1,000 soldiers were killed.
The victory of London.
And now, after almost 40 years, Buenos Aires seems to be ripe for revenge.
All this new Argentine President to begin with politely offered to discuss the British.
They say that Hong Kong was transferred to China in 1997.
In response, however, he received a strong refusal.
But neighbors in the region - in particular, Venezuela - with both hands for the triumph of historical justice.
In general, the words “bluff ” and“ outrageous ” can describe everything that Javier Miley, who took office a month ago, does.
The first under the administrative saw were employees of the state apparatus.
By his order, Miley dismissed all officials who came to work in 2023.
Who will implement the "great reforms" of the Argentine president, and there are about 300 of them, even experts do not really understand.
In the "basket" went the majority of benefits, social payments and government contracts.
The state will not build kindergartens, schools, hospitals and roads.
And we don ’ t need all this in a country of “victorious libertarianism. ”
It was with this program that Miley went to the elections.
Maximum of freedom.
minimum of regulation.
As they say, get it, sign it.
“First of all, he is referring to economic freedoms on the principle of“ the market will regulate everything. ”
But we know well even on the example of our country, when this slogan sounded in the early 90s, that the market can not regulate everything, ” said Lazar Heifetz, Doctor of Historical Sciences.
The main instrument of Miley ’ s economic program is artificial devaluation.
54% immediately.
That is, the already weak national currency was literally thrown into the abyss.
Argentina ’ s pride, its national treasure and its people ’ s favorite product, meat, is the most visible indicator of economic change.
“I have two dogs, and I usually bring them meat cuts.
They both ate a kilogram each day.
It's over now.
Two weeks ago, I was paying 2,300 pesos per kilo.
Last Friday it was 3000 and today it is 4000!
In a short time, meat has risen by 65%.
I ’ ve been working for 25 years and I ’ ve never seen it, ” says butcher Sergio Gomez.
According to Miley himself, his program will bring results at best in 10 years.
It's not guaranteed.
During this time, Argentina may lose not only what is left of the national economy, but also natural resources.
No wonder there are so many people dissatisfied with this policy.
However, on them the supporters of "universal freedom" the government was found.
And this is not self-regulation, but old-fashioned administrative measures.
We started an audit in foreign policy.
Here, the pace is more modest.
The UN Miley called it a “useless thing. ”
With China and Brazil, contrary to election promises, did not break economic and trade relations.
The refusal to join BRICS, he argued that the country simply does not have the money to do so.
Finally, the fiery alliance with the United States did not happen either.
Washington is clearly not eager to take another dependant.
"During the election campaign, he said loudly - blow up the Central Bank!
We look at the composition of the government and see that he has appointed the chairman of the Central Bank.
However, this position was not assigned to the author of the idea of dollarization, but another person.
This indicates that Miley and his economic team will not insist on dollarization in the near future.
“Electoral promises, especially from populists like Javier Miley, are one thing, and real politics, including foreign policy, is a little different, ” Heifetz said.
Here and observes the world for what is happening as a fascinating Latin American series.
The eternal antagonists Batman and Joker were seen on the streets of the capital of Ecuador.
It also reminds me of a blockbuster.
In this case, a thriller.
A state of emergency has been declared in the country.
In front of a multi-million audience, armed thugs burst into the studio of the final program.
Shot at one of the cameramen.
The other has a broken arm.
Through the leading intruders put forward their demands to the authorities.
The hostages were eventually released, but several prisons remain seized.
The prisoners revolted.
It all began with the escape from custody of the leader of one of the criminal groups “Los Choneros ”.
Jose Adolfo Macias, nicknamed Fito.
And if the military managed to take control of the situation in the capital, the residents of port cities are still afraid to go out.
In fact, the Mafia has declared war on the government.
The dead, including police officers, are more than 10.
"Unfortunately, Ecuador has recently held a record for the number of murders.
It is a country where there is a lot of violence.
And even if you remember the last presidential election, a presidential candidate and another parliamentary candidate were killed.
So, basically, it all came together.
It is also a big blow to the government.
Because President Daniel Noboa came in with a crime-fighting program.
A very tough fight.
Creation of mega-prisons, ” said Dmitry Rozental, acting director of the Institute of Latin America of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Like the Argentine president, Noboa has been in power for less than a hundred days.
But already managed to make a lot of management mistakes, experts emphasize.
The security services were not ready for the mutiny.
While the mafia all long and carefully planned.
And now, instead of throwing all his strength to solve domestic problems, Noboa is trying to flirt with the United States.
Quito will give Washington allegedly “old ” Russian equipment worth $200 million.
The United States, in turn, will send it to Kiev.
Moscow has already called such actions of the Ecuadorian authorities unfriendly.
According to Colombia, it was the US policy that provoked the unrest in Ecuador.
On the turn and other countries of the continent, experts are sure.
Problems, like a snowball, will only increase.
“I think that Latin America is already a hotbed of instability, given that the domestic political situation in many countries is very difficult.
For the US, control of Latin America is key in terms of ensuring its own national security, and the Americans, of course, seek to influence the countries of Latin America.
They try to put pressure on them.
Remove non-regional actors from the region.
Like China and Russia.
Another question is how well they do it.
The world has changed, it is not the same as it was in the 80s of the 20th century, ” concluded Rosenthal.
Old methods like color revolutions or puppet governments no longer work.
And while Washington is busy with Ukraine and the Middle East, the sparks of a big geopolitical fire are burning brightly in its backyard.
Matvey Shestakov, TV Center
All the most interesting - in our channel "Zen"
The main thing today
Protests in Argentina
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Anti-terrorist operation in Ecuador
Anti-terrorist operation in Ecuador
Anti-terrorist operation in Ecuador
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- He relies on **presidential decrees** to advance his agenda, with a readiness to bring proposals to referenda if blocked in parliament, demonstrating a willingness to bypass traditional legislative routes.

- He positions himself as anti-establishment, aiming to “end the games of socialism and groveling before the trade unions.”
- He supports **liberalizing gun laws:** “introduce the free sale of weapons.”
- Strongly libertarian-leaning, he champions individual freedom: "Who are you to determine what a person does with his life?"

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Monday, 04.09.2023
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There is a risk that Argentina will not become a member of the BRICS
15: 36 04.09.2023
VALENTIN KATASONOV
The likely future president is set to change the current vector of foreign policy of the Latin American country
The next BRICS summit has ended in South Africa.
The main decision of the summit is the admission of new members.
On August 24, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that from January 1, 2024, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt and Argentina should become full members of the BRICS.
But for Argentina, it was immediately doubtful that she would take advantage of the invitation.
The application to join the organization was submitted by the current government and President of Argentina Alberto Fernandez.
But just a week or so before the BRICS summit, Argentina held a primaries, a preliminary round of presidential elections.
And according to the results of the primaries, it became clear that a radical “change of the guard ” could occur in the country.
The best chance of becoming the next president of the country was demonstrated by Javier Miley, representing the movement under the beautiful name "Forward to Freedom".
Miley received 30.04% of the vote.
The government alliance "Union for the Homeland", which is nominated by the Minister of Economy, Agriculture and Industrial Development Sergio Massa, was supported by 27.27% of voters.
The Alliance "Together for Change", which nominated two candidates for the primaries, received a total of 28.27% of the vote.
Bullrich will represent him in the election.
Mileus, in his ideological position, is a “libertarian, ” that is, he adheres to views close to anarchism.
He seeks for the sake of "freedom" to rid a person of an excess of state guardianship and supervision.
He chose the United States as the “standard of freedom. ”
Javier Miley in the presidential race is actively supported by former security Minister Patricia Bullrich, who has a good chance to take third place in the election.
And then give their votes to Miley, having received from him at least the post of vice president.
Elections are due to take place on October 22.
According to the regulations, there are two rounds.
But if a convincing victory is recorded in the first round (at least 45% of the votes), then a second round will not be required.
Miley ’ s supporters are confident that their protege will be announced as president in the first round.
For the authorities, the first place of Javier Miley was a complete surprise.
Almost no one knew about Miley for another six months.
This new politician very successfully used all the problems that have accumulated in the country to date.
Miley blamed them on the incapacity of the ruling party, President Alberto Fernandez and Vice President Cristina Kirchner.
He promises to put the latter on trial for corruption as soon as she is deprived of her official immunity.
As for socio-economic problems, these are mass poverty (40 percent of the country ’ s population is classified as poor), galloping inflation (this year it reaches 115%), growing public debt and the threat of a new default, high unemployment, etc.
Miley is determined to change the current vector of Argentina ’ s foreign policy.
He has already said loudly that he does not need BRICS.
There is no need not only for membership in the organization, but also for further deepening of trade and economic relations with the BRICS countries.
The bloc currently accounts for 30% of Argentina ’ s exports.
Today, for 8-10 provinces of Argentina, the main direction of supply is China, a lot of agricultural products go to India.
Brazil is the traditional main trading partner of Argentina.
Javier Miley is not going to get closer to either Beijing or Moscow.
He accused Russia and China of creating “problems for all free countries. ”
In addition, he promised to deal with “refugees ” from Russia.
These are those who left our country after February 24, 2022, as well as after the September mobilization of last year, and, taking advantage of the visa-free regime, settled in Argentina.
There are about 35,000 such people today.
Here Patricia Bullrich fully supports Miley.
"We must ensure the safety of Argentines from external influence.
And the representatives of those countries that threaten the United States, threaten Argentina, ” she said.
And with whom does this candidate for president of Argentina intend to approach?
with the United States and Israel.
Miley, in particular, said: "Stop flirting with those who create chaos and instability in the world.
“The freest country in the world is the United States, and we will work closely with them on all key international issues. ”
Also in an interview with El Pais, he said: “My natural allies are the United States and Israel.
I do not want to deal with the communists of Cuba, China and North Korea.
What does that mean?
Trade with whomever you want, but I will not strengthen relations with them. "
And what is Javier Miley going to do inside the country?
What any libertarian would do in his place.
The politician said that “the state should not interfere in the life of citizens – freedom should be complete and unconditional. ”
Accordingly, he proposes to sharply reduce budget expenditures, conduct almost 100 percent privatization of state-owned enterprises, reduce the state apparatus and liquidate a number of ministries (primarily the Ministry of Labor and the Ministry of Education), abolish the severance payments to employees upon dismissal, etc.
And also to introduce the free sale of weapons.
As the politician noted, “we should have everything as in the United States, then there will be order and corruption will disappear. ”
But Javier Miley is not an ordinary libertarian.
He promised the Argentines something that other libertarians would never have thought of.
For example, to legalize the free trade in children and human organs.
“Who are you to determine what a person does with his life? ” the politician answers the question, whether such trade is permissible.
Unorthodox ideas Javier Miley also expresses about the problems of financial, currency and monetary credit.
He proposed, first, to liquidate the Central Bank of Argentina.
Second, cancel the Argentine peso and define the US dollar as the national currency.
In Argentina, Miley famously said, “Central banks fall into four categories: bad, like the Fed; very bad, like in Latin America; terribly bad; and the Central Bank of Argentina. ”
As Javier Miley said, the latter "has no reason to exist."
In an interview with El Pais, the politician explained his position on the Central Bank: “Argentina became the richest country in the world when it did not have a Central Bank.
From 1880 to 1935, average inflation was 0.9% per year.
In 1935, the Central Bank was created as a way to deceive people and benefit those close to power: inflation then jumped to an average of 6% per year.
And the abandonment of the peso in favor of the US dollar will deprive the ruling class of Argentina of the opportunity to print money: "You take away the printing machine from politicians...
This is what will end inflation.
Because inflation is everywhere and always a monetary phenomenon generated by an excess of money.
However, in addition to the dollar as the official currency, the country will allow the free use of private cryptocurrencies, primarily bitcoin.
Miley believes that bitcoin is a reaction to central bank scammers.
True, if all the world ’ s central banks, according to Miley, are crooks, why does he agree to deal with the dollar, which, following the logic of politics, is also created by a fraudulent structure called the “US Federal Reserve ”?
Miley cites as examples worthy of imitation countries such as Ecuador, El Salvador and Panama, where there are no national currencies, and the dollar, in his opinion, provides these countries with financial stability.
However, if you look at these countries, the situation there is not very different from the situation in Argentina.
When asked about the problems that Ecuador faces today, the politician replied that the reason for this is the populist policy of former President Rafael Correa.
The Argentine politician calls not all countries and jurisdictions that do not have national currencies, but the US dollar instead.
To the list should be added Puerto Rico, the American Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Micronesia, American Samoa, Zimbabwe East Timor and something else by little.
Of all the countries that have adopted the US dollar, the largest in terms of population are Ecuador (18 million people) and Zimbabwe (16 million people).
More than 46 million people live in Argentina.
In terms of economic development (GDP), it is the third country in Latin America after Brazil and Mexico.
Of course, the transition of Argentina to the US dollar would be a real sensation, not only for Latin America, but for the whole world.
Especially considering that the prospects for the US dollar are not so rosy.
And yet Miley is a supporter of the US dollar: “What does it matter to us that dollars are printed in the US?
The main thing is that we will no longer wake up and see what the peso to the dollar exchange rate was yesterday and what it will be tomorrow.
The US dollar will bring financial order to our country.
And by doing so, we will end the games of socialism and the groveling before the trade unions. "
This is the logic of the contender for the presidency of Argentina.
In order to achieve financial stability in the country, to end the games of socialism and stop squabbling in front of the trade unions, Javier Miley is ready to sacrifice such a "trifle" as the national sovereignty of Argentina.
P.S. In social networks, there is a discussion of the question: what guided the participants of the summit in South Africa, when they made the decision to accept Argentina as a member of the BRICS?
The results of the primaries were already known to them.
One version is that in a similar way, the summit participants tried to provide indirect support to the government alliance “Union for the sake of the Motherland ” in the October elections.
After all, the alliance is unequivocally in favor of Argentina ’ s membership in the BRICS.
It is also important that, according to opinion polls, the majority of Argentine citizens also support the idea of   the country's membership in the BRICS.
Source - Strategic Culture Foundation
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- Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated September 1, 2023 No. 318
- Personnel reshuffles
- Maulen Ashimbayev: "The Senate is ready for legislative support of the reforms proposed in the Address"
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How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

**Foreign Policy Changes:**
- Intends to shift Argentina’s alignment sharply **toward the United States and Israel**, and away from countries like China, Cuba, and North Korea (“communists”).

What are some of the "liberal democracies" that the Milei administration prioritizes partnerships?

What reason did Milei give about not engaging with China, Cuba, and Venezuela?

- Skeptical of Argentina’s ongoing BRICS membership.

- Plans to convene a **Latin American summit in support of Ukraine**, highlighting a reorientation away from previous alliances.

Title:

Content: Argentine President Javier Miley wants to hold a summit of Latin American countries that support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
In an interview with the Financial Times, he said he prioritizes alliances with “countries that defend freedom, ” including the United States and Israel, which he visited in February, as well as Ukraine.
Miley said that he plans to hold a "summit of Latin American support" for Ukraine this year - he did not disclose details.
Journalists note that his position differs sharply from the positions of the President of Brazil Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and the President of Mexico Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
Video of the day
What we know about Javier Miley:
Miley, 53, described as a right-wing populist and right-wing libertarian, is a prominent Argentine politician and economist.
In November, he won the second round of the presidential election.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came to his inauguration, during the meeting he invited the country to join the discussion of the Formula of Peace.
At the end of 203, Argentina officially refused membership in the BRICS interstate alliance, announcing a new course of foreign policy.
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**Social and Political Context:**
- Milei’s presidency represents a dramatic **rightward shift** and anti-left backlash in Argentina’s politics, breaking with the region's “pink tide.”
- His aggressive reforms have already faced public resistance and caused unrest; social tensions are high, with protests and law enforcement confrontations reported.

How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

Who has opposed Milei's proposed layoff order?

- Milei’s approach is described as **“shock therapy”** by the media and analysts, with comparisons to historical poisons—indicating both the perceived risks and the dramatic nature of his interventions.

**Implications:**
- These reforms are **reshaping Argentina’s institutions** by weakening the state, bureaucracy, and union power, while emphasizing market mechanisms and private initiative.

How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

What does Milei promote in terms of healthcare and education?

- The social fabric is under strain due to abrupt economic changes and public sector cuts.

Title:

Content: Alexander Gorbarukov IA REGNUM
Rolling Stones in Cuba
The changes in Brazil, as well as the shift of political forces in Latin America to the right, are changes that may well turn out to be “seismic. ”
The left-wing trend of the early 21st century has been called the “pink wave ” by some analysts, a brand of leftist Latin American populism embodied by the late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez.
Its influence in the region was financed by the boom in world oil prices, as well as China ’ s breakthrough to resources, markets and allies in Latin America.
(China has become Venezuela ’ s main creditor, giving the country roughly $45 billion.)
Another factor was the unusual degree of American inattention to the region during George W. Bush ’ s time — the administration was distracted by the “war on terror ” and the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
But since Chavez ’ s death in March 2013, the dynamics have begun to change.
The fall in oil prices, as well as the gradual slowdown of China ’ s economy, meant lower revenues for the extractive industries of export-oriented Latin American countries.
Corruption and mismanagement had long been masked by this extra money, and soon came to light, thanks to deep chronic problems — most evident in countries such as Venezuela, Brazil and Argentina.
The pink tide quickly receded.
The surge began in Argentina last November with the election victory of Mauricio Macri, a pro-American free-market apologist, over the successor of outgoing President Christina Kirchner.
The thirteen-year period of the “left-wing ” broad coalition of Kirchner and her late forerunner husband, Nestor Kirchner, is over.
Three years after Chavez ’ s death, “socialist ” Venezuela was almost on the verge of poverty, with terrible food and energy prices, shortages and looting.
The opposition is collecting signatures for a referendum to recall Chavez ’ s successor, the clumsy and pompous Nicolas Maduro.
One senior U.S. government official told me that the fall of the Venezuelan government was likely “not if, but when, ” writes a NewRepublic journalist.
Maduro has already refused to make any political concessions, insisting that his term ends only in 2019.
As for the country ’ s deficit, Maduro recently said he has a “plan, ” but that seems unlikely.
In Bolivia, meanwhile, leftist leader Evo Morales, who has been in office since 2006, narrowly lost in a referendum that was designed to extend the presidential term, allowing him to run for a fourth term.
At the current level of popularity, Morales will be forced to resign after the elections in 2019, ” writes NewRepublic.
Changes are taking place throughout the region.
In December 2014, President Obama and Castro announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States, and a flood of American tourists and businessmen rushed to Cuba in the hope of investing money profitably.
And in Colombia, the “Marxist Rebellion ” is winding down the last in the hemisphere, as the FARC guerrillas and the government concluded that a peace agreement was needed that would put an end to the 50-year civil war.
“Even in Chile — where arguably the best economy in the region — everything is still reliant on copper exports, and Ms. Michelle Bachelet ’ s approval rating has dropped to an unprecedented low, threatening her ambitious program of constitutional and educational reforms.
Add to this the corruption scandals involving her son, the weaknesses in the ruling center-left coalition...
A return to the right in the 2017 presidential election seems very likely, ” TheGlobeandMail suggested.
“When I asked Cassio Luicelli, a former Mexican diplomat, what he thought about it, he instantly replied, ‘ This is the end of the Cuban project in the hemisphere. ’
At a recent conference in New York, the famous leftist writer Ignacio Ramone, editor of the Spanish edition of Le Monde, diplomat and biographer of Chavez and Fidel Castro, repeated the same idea: “Perhaps the historical cycle of the revolution is ending, and now it is just good governance that matters. ”
If the “pink tide ” is over, what will come in its place?
Luiselli says he hopes the trend is toward social democracy.
Despite the chaos in Venezuela and Brazil, as well as the drug terror that has engulfed Mexico and almost all of Central America, he has clearly expressed optimism about the future of this large region.
“The middle class is now bigger there than before and civil society is stronger, although the rule of law has yet to be established, ” he said.
“There will be no more coups, for all the cries of them have subsided.
Pinochet ’ s days are over, and the tradition of “victimizing Latin America ” must be halted.
The left must grow and take responsibility for its actions.
There are people who accuse the US of a “coup ” against Dilma.
But this is simply not true, and to say so is not fair to Brazil.
It is a big country and it has to find its way, make its own choices and make its own mistakes. ”
“A lot of people think it ’ s time to invest in Brazil.
Rental prices are low — it ’ s time to invest, ” writes TheNewYorker.
“Latin America has swung to the left, ” the Associated Press announced in 2006, listing the electoral victories of left-wing candidates one by one.
“The beginning of the twenty-first century was the dawn of a new era in South America, a moment of unprecedented political transformation —“ not red, but pink tide, ” writes Larry Rotter of The New York Times.
Between 1999 and 2008, left-wing and center-left leaders took office in Venezuela, Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Bolivia, Ecuador and Paraguay.
While the world was shaken by the economic fallout of the 2008 financial crisis, South America was strong.
“Why does the left keep winning? ” in 2009, The Guardian described the continent as“ the most democratic ” and mentioned high economic growth.
Left-wing governments brought social justice to the fore and abandoned the so-called Washington Consensus: the neoliberal recipe for privatization and open markets.
The turn to the left at the beginning of the century heralded new opportunities.
According to left-wing leaders, it was necessary to create “counter-hegemonic ” alliances and free the region from the oppression of the United States.
Today, the picture is radically different from those rainbow days.
Many American experts, rubbing their hands, argue that the “pink chapter ” in the political and social history of South America is coming to an end.
According to a 2015 report by the Chilean branch of the statistical company Latinobarometro, Latin America ranks among the lowest in terms of satisfaction with the quality of democracy in the world.
Government ratings have fallen very sharply across the continent in recent years.
In The New York Times last month, Jorge Castañeda, a political scientist and former foreign minister of Mexico, announced the death of the leftist.
And Patrick Iber, a historian at the University of Texas at El Paso, told the newspaper: “Leaders who are described by others as Narodniks don ’ t see themselves as such; they usually talk about ‘ 21st century socialism ’ or something like that. ”
When the pro-Marxist movements lost their “Soviet fuse, ” Castaneda mapped out new possible courses.
He defined the “two leftist movements ” in Latin America.
One of them, in his opinion, shared the aspirations and values of the social democrats of Europe, wanted the welfare state to accept the logic of the market, shunned the ideas of revolutionary change and wanted to make peace with the United States for the glory of globalization.
Another, according to Castaneda, is the populist movement of the left, whose rhetoric gives away nationalism.
They “love power more than democracy ” and use anti-imperialist rhetoric as a“ collection of plays in international affairs. ”
Chavez became, according to Castaneda, the standard bearer of the “wrong ideology of the left. ”
And while political life is too diverse to fit neatly within the confines of a certain dichotomy, one cycle of populist governance is coming to an end, and disillusionment with leftist leaders has peaked — it is a fact.
“The left lost more than the right won, ” said Ranan Rein, a professor of Latin American history and vice president of Tel Aviv University.
“It ’ s not Macri who has become so popular, ” Rhine explains the emergence of Argentina ’ s new president,“ it ’ s just his predecessors, the Kirchners, who destroyed Peronism, ” Argentina ’ s national working-class movement.
There is no return to the old.
And the left idea no longer enjoys the support of the majority.
Like other leaders in the region, the Kirchners pursued a simple “redistributive ” policy based on the assumption that the state should simply divide the national pie fairly.
But Argentina and its neighbors are deeply unequal societies.
Last month, a report by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean showed to what extent (after taxes) inequality in Latin America reaches, as opposed to Europe or even the United States, where taxes, on the contrary, are designed to reduce inequality.
“Pink Tide ” governments have worked to remedy this situation.
Without engaging economic processes, they restored the average standard of living, challenging the privileges of the elite, ” writes the publication TheNewRepublic.
Bolivian President Evo Morales, the country ’ s first indigenous president, held his inauguration ceremony on the pre-Columbian ruins of Tiahuanaco, depicting a national tradition of continuity of power and a connection with indigenous cultures.
This is not the model – not the old liberal democracy, here citizens voted once every four years and did not affect how politics really formed, ” says Rein.
“It ’ s tempting populism, it could have triggered democratization impulses, ” he adds.
“But we know he ’ s already part of history. ”
The success of President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, like others, depended on the constant mobilization of public support based on confronting enemies, both real and imagined.
Populists divide the civilian population into a “people ” and a group that goes beyond that stratum — an elite that is responsible for the country ’ s problems, often involving foreigners.
This phenomenon can come from both the right and the left.
Kirchner did just that – she built political and social life on the principle of Manichaean struggle, pitting “people ” and“ anti-people ” against each other.
Heriberto Muraro, an Argentine sociologist, summed up the state of society, speaking on the BBC he said: “Our society is divided between those who hate the president, those who love her, and those who are in the middle – who are tired of polarization.
“Kirchner is just one example on a continent flooded with charismatic leaders. ”
The left was popular as long as it made lofty promises.
The pink wave coincided with the global commodity boom.
The sharp rise in commodity prices favored leaders in Quito, Brazil, and especially Buenos Aires.
China has filled the coffers of these countries by supplying cash for progressive programs.
In Brazil, where President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva launched the Zero Hunger campaign to help the most disadvantaged, the country ’ s “human development ” scores doubled during both of his terms in office.
Brazil ’ s strongest and most popular president left 80% approval ratings.
At that time, statist measures brought real results to the country.
The legacy of former President Lula is now in jeopardy.
The problem is not so much that social subsidies were “gifts ” or a form of patronage, and“ redistributive ” policies have dramatically changed the lives of millions of people across South America.
The problem is that the money ran out and there was no plan what to do in this case.
Noble intentions have given way to inefficiency and corruption.
After commodity prices fell and China ’ s economy “cooled, ” Latin America was thrown off the horse.
“They have neglected to invest in the quality of education, science, technology and innovation, ” Andres Oppenheimer writes for The Miami Herald.
The shocking results of a report in August 2015 by the Mexican publication El Financiero illustrate the region ’ s overwhelming dependence on commodity exports.
Venezuela produces almost nothing but oil, iron and aluminum – raw materials account for 98% of the country ’ s total exports.
In Ecuador, raw materials and agricultural products account for 86% of exports, most of which are oil, bananas and flowers.
In Bolivia, 72% of exports are oil, copper and zinc.
In Argentina, almost 70% of export earnings also come from commodities, mainly soybeans.
Despite the super-profits that could finance innovation and secure the future of social policy, the people still owe their sudden prosperity to fluctuations in world prices for a few basic commodities.
After the illusion of stability was lost in the minds of voters, the prospects of the left evaporated.
With the devastation of reserves and the onset of inflation, the Kirchner administration began punishing economists who somehow tried to fight it.
In 2013, she distinguished herself by being the first world leader to receive censure from the IMF ’ s executive board for “not providing accurate data on inflation and economic growth in the country. ”
Groups such as Oxford Economics and a number of other economists confirm the fictitious data.
A few days after Macri won the election, Martha Lagos, director of the non-governmental statistical organization Latinobarometro, told The Wall Street Journal: “When there is no money, there is no populism. ”
The Kirchners have lost the trust of the public, but this is not only an Argentine phenomenon, it extends to Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia and Brazil.
The turn to the right logically followed the abandonment of left-wing populism.
In any case, Macri managed to attract support by presenting himself as a moderate technocrat with a pragmatic approach to politics.
In the run-up to Argentina ’ s elections, opinion polls confirmed that nearly 50% of respondents would prefer “continuity and change. ”
Moderation, as a campaign slogan, became popular after it was adopted as a strategy by left-wing candidate Daniel Sioli, the successor chosen by Kirchner.
His assurances of “continuity with change ” failed to convince voters — they saw him as more than the former and less than the latter.
The old cliché categories of “left and right ” no longer make sense, as mismanagement and corruption persisted everywhere.
Some analysts are sure that it is too early to bury left-wing populism in Latin America.
He may well be resurrected, and perhaps in the same way.
Argentina, for example, is more polarized than ever, it is mired in corruption scandals that are not yet clear where they will lead.
The region ’ s economic outlook is bleak “as long as the social gap is so huge, ” says Rein Castaneda.
Perhaps “the middle and lower middle classes will create multi-class alliances against the elites. ”
Castaneda ’ s solution is that the Latin American left should be restructured along the lines of Western European social democratic parties, and centuries of colonial rule in the region have nothing to do with it.
Another example is in the region itself.
Tiny Uruguay, with a population of 3 to 4 million people, has no “messiah leaders. ”
In contrast, its humble former president, José Mujica “Pepe, ” has implemented a transparent model of governance — a small country in Latin America the least corrupt, according to Transparency International.
In addition, Uruguay has become a world leader in renewable energy.
There are no “social militants ” shouting slogans in Montevideo ’ s squares.
But unlike its neighbors, the path that Uruguay has taken is a path of social growth, it has been very successful, peaceful and unifying.
The coalition of center-left parties, which has ruled Uruguay since 2004, is now facing headwinds caused by recessions in Brazil and Argentina, where the country sold most of its exports.
So far, President Tabaré Vázquez, who is in office for a second term (Uruguayan law prohibits further re-elections), seems to prefer pragmatism to political bias.
South American progressives do not have to look back at Europe, the country of their own continent can serve as an example, ” writes TheNewRepublic.

- Argentina is positioned as a potential **test case for radical libertarian policymaking** in Latin America, with uncertain outcomes for stability and growth.

**In summary:**
Javier Milei’s agenda is marked by radical libertarian and neoliberal reforms, prioritizing fiscal discipline, currency stability, deregulation, shrinking the public sector, and a new foreign policy alignment.

What economic issue did Milei want to address?

These changes are producing social upheaval and institutional realignment, with significant consequences for Argentina’s future trajectory.

**Summary of Key Policies and Reforms of President Javier Milei in Argentina**

1.

Title:

Content: Javier Mille as President of Argentina
T + T - normal size
Javier Milley was sworn in as Argentina ’ s president on Monday, announcing he would take “painful austerity measures ” as he seeks to cut spending and curb hyperinflation amid scarce resources.
The 53-year-old right-wing liberal economist broke tradition by addressing thousands of supporters on the steps of Congress, waving flags, chanting “freedom ” and chanting slogans in support of spending cuts.
“There is no money, ” he said, vowing to put an end to“ decades of decadence ” that have seen overspending, “no government has inherited a legacy as bad as this, ” he said, adding:“ The bottom line is that there is no alternative to austerity, there is no alternative to shock therapy. ”
Argentina has an annual inflation rate of 140%, with about 40% of the population living in poverty.
Analysts have warned that government reserves are dangerously low and that the heavily indebted country has "few borrowing options".
He has pledged to cut spending by 5% of GDP in Latin America ’ s third-largest economy.
After his speech, the new president made his way on foot, then in a convertible, from the Congress building to the presidential palace, Casa Rosada, greeting his supporters, along with his sister, Carina, his closest aide.
Milley will later announce the members of a cabinet of nine ministers, a significant reduction from the current 18 ministers, Milley said: “The first set of his actions will be presented to Congress in a matter of days. ”
Email

**Austerity and Spending Cuts**:
   - Javier Milei has made severe austerity the centerpiece of his economic agenda, declaring that Argentina has "no money and no alternative" but to cut spending dramatically.

Title:

Content: Monday, 11 December 2023 01: 32 GMT
Argentina ’ s new president Javier Miley: We have no money, no alternative to austerity
(MENAFN- Al-Bayan)
Libertarian right-wing economist Javier Miley took office as president of Argentina on Sunday, three weeks after an outsider beat presidential candidate Sergio Massa by promising to cut social spending and shut down the central bank.
“I ’ ll say it again: we don ’ t have money, ” Miley told lawmakers and international leaders present that Argentina has no alternative to austerity in what he called“ shock therapy. ”
“Today marks the beginning of a new era.
Today the reconstruction of Argentina begins, "he said, ending his speech with his popular phrase:" Long live freedom. "
Among the attendees were Spanish King Felipe VI, Chilean President Gabriel Boric, Uruguayan Prime Minister Luis Lacal Bo, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Miley ’ s new government is due to announce its first actions Monday morning at a press conference, spokesman Manuel Adorney told reporters outside the country ’ s Capitol on Sunday.
Adorni confirmed that details were still being finalised, but said the press conference would be around 8 a.m. local time on Monday at the presidential palace Casa Rosada, Bloomberg news agency reported.
Sunday also marks the 40th anniversary of Argentina ’ s return to democracy after a military dictatorship.
Miley won the runoff on November 19 over former Economy Minister Sergio Massa.
Amid a severe economic crisis, Miley, the “anarchist capitalist, ” as he describes himself, vowed to radically transform the country.
He wants to introduce the US dollar as legal tender, abolish the central bank and several ministries and drastically cut social spending.
Since his election campaign, Miley has considerably toned down his speeches, postponing or discontinuing many of his original plans.
He also brought into his government a number of experienced and experienced politicians whom he had previously discredited as members of the “class ” he despised.
Miley does not have a majority in parliament, making him dependent on other parties if he hopes to implement major reforms.
Miley is leading Argentina in the midst of a severe economic crisis, where inflation is above 140 percent, and about 40 percent of the once-wealthy nation ’ s population lives below the poverty line.
The second largest economy in South America suffers from a bloated government sector, a decline in industrial production, and a large shadow economy that deprives the state of tax revenues.
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What issue did Milei want to address without printing money?

- He aims to reduce public spending by about 5% of GDP, a significant contraction in the budget for social programs and state functions.

- Immediate actions included massive cuts to government subsidies, particularly for fuel and transportation, leading to higher costs for citizens.

Title:

Content: Global Economic News
Millie's attempts to liberalize Argentina's economy
366 rules changed, including privatization, housing and work
Demonstration in Argentina against the decree of President Javier Milli.
"E.B.A."
Last week, Argentina ’ s libertarian president, Javier Milley, issued a sweeping decree to change or abolish 366 economic rules in a country accustomed to heavy government intervention in the market.
The move is the first of its kind in Argentina ’ s history, as none of its democratically elected presidents has attempted such a massive dismantling of the system.
That ’ s exactly what Milley promised during his election campaign, waving a chainsaw to symbolize his attempt to cut public spending as Argentina struggles with three-figure inflation after decades of fiscal mismanagement.
However, according to Argentine law, Congress still has the power to flood Melli ’ s program.
Change of daily life
Ten days after taking office, and on the eve of the holidays, Milley presented his "necessary and urgent" decree to loosen some of the rules governing the country's economy, where annual inflation has reached 160 percent.
One big change will be the removal of all restrictions between tenant and landlord, such as laws on increasing rents.
In recent years, landlords have increasingly priced their properties in dollars to avoid falling into the rental income trap that has long been overtaken by rising inflation.
This was a nightmare for tenants in a country where access to the dollar was tightly controlled.
Melli ’ s plan also loosened labor laws, increasing the probation period for new employees from three to eight months.
Compensation for Groundless Dismissal Laws have been amended in the interest of companies, and plans are being made to renegotiate labor agreements in force since 1975.
He also lifted export restrictions and said the internet market would be liberalized.
Milley also abandoned rules preventing the privatization of government institutions, already setting his sights on the national airline and the oil company.
He also moved to limit the right to strike enshrined in the constitution.
Purpose of the decree
Milley, a figure whose rise to the country ’ s highest office surprised most observers, blames the interventionist and protectionist policies of previous governments for stifling the economy.
Before the decree was announced, the new government had already devalued the Argentine peso by more than 50 percent and announced massive cuts in generous government subsidies for fuel and transportation starting in January.
“The goal is to begin the process of rebuilding the country, restoring the freedom and independence of individuals and beginning to dismantle the vast amount of systems that have halted and hindered economic growth, ” Milley said.
One protester said: "There may be people with Stockholm syndrome.
They are fascinated by a model that impoverishes them. ”
The opposition, who was recently ousted from the government, criticized Milley for the decree, seeing it as a way to overcome his lack of a majority in Congress.
Miley Libertad Avanza, who is only two years old, has only 40 of the 257 seats in the House of Representatives and seven of the 72 seats in the Senate.
German Martinez, speaker of the parliament of the Peronist coalition, said: "Uniting for the homeland is not the right way.
They sent the reforms as bills.
“Don ’ t be afraid of democratic debate. ”
Constitutional lawyer Emiliano Vitaliani said the country's highest laws state that "in principle laws cannot be amended by decree and the president cannot replace Congress."
Political scientist Lara Guiboro said the resolution "crosses all boundaries and rules out many issues that need political agreements from Congress and the provinces."
Vitalini said the decree could be revoked if it was rejected by both houses of Congress.
Otherwise it will come into force on December 29.
Constitutional lawyer Alejandro Carrillo said in an article in the Lanacion newspaper that "the president has made a very big bet, and his success will depend on his ability to obtain legislative support that is not yet known."
It comes at a time when Argentina is stuck in the grip of an economic crisis with the highest inflation in 30 years.
Cecilia Rojas is searching every store in the vast city of Buenos Aires to find affordable gifts for her children for what is expected to be a bleak Christmas day this year as Argentina faces its worst economic crisis in decades.
Rojas, 47, said: “Before, I used to buy from a well-known toy chain, but now I ’ m looking at smaller stores nearby to find a better price.
Rojas, a psychologist, has two sons, one aged 17 and the other eight.
This year, they will each receive one gift, knowing that they have received many gifts in previous years. ”
Argentina ends the year with the highest inflation rate in the past 30 years, over 160 percent year-on-year.
The 50 percent devaluation of the peso, approved by the government of liberal President Javier Milley on Dec. 12 two days after taking office, has led to a new price spike in a country where more than 40 percent of the population is poor.
Games prices have risen by 110 to 230 percent this year, according to figures from the Argentine Chamber of Gaming Industry.
Thus, shoppers on Christmas Day should be patient and seasoned.
Ogostina Jago, a 23-year-old mother of four, said: "If you walk a little, you can find the same product in different stores at different prices."
"This year, we will buy him a gift thanks to the help we get from grandmothers and fortunately, there are many of them."
The country is also under the brunt of the radical measures of President Javier Mille ’ s new government, which has issued hundreds of decrees to revive the ailing economy.
Milley, who has pledged to cut government spending, also announced deep cuts in subsidies on fuel and the transport sector starting in January.
His government also scrapped a programme to control the prices of some goods introduced by the previous government to try to soften the impact of inflation.
Milley warned that the country was on the brink of hyperinflation and that things would get worse before they began to improve.
Alexandra Mazi, a 49-year-old schoolteacher who took part in a protest against the new measures, said: “They are starving people, using policies that have been applied in the past and have not worked, and all they are doing is impoverishing the working class. ”
Milley ’ s government has forced organizers of its first protest to pay tens of thousands of dollars to cover the cost of deploying security forces to protect it.
Euronews reported that thousands of people took part in a demonstration on Wednesday against Milley ’ s austerity measures and to commemorate the bloody 2001 protests that followed the country ’ s economic collapse.
Government spokesman Manuel Adorney said the cost of the massive deployment of police and riot police was 60 million pesos ($73,000 at the official exchange rate).
“The bill will be sent to social movements ” as they“ bear responsibility for the cost that should not be borne by citizens, ” he said.
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**Currency Devaluation and Inflation**:
   - Upon taking office, Milei’s government devalued the Argentine peso by more than 50%.

- These measures come as the country is gripped by its highest inflation in 30 years—at about 140% annually—and with poverty affecting close to 40% of the population.

As of 2024, what are the statistics regarding poverty?

What economic issue did Milei want to address?

- Amid these shocks, the government has warned the public that hyperinflation is a real threat and that the crisis may worsen before improvements are seen.

As of 2024, what are the statistics regarding poverty?

annual inflation rate of 211% is highest in 32 years

**Legal and Institutional Reforms**:
   - Milei has pursued aggressive use of presidential decrees to implement changes rapidly.

One such major decree aims to overhaul economic regulations and limit strikes, even though the right to strike is constitutionally protected.

How will Milei's reforms impact workers?

- The decree's validity is subject to congressional approval, and it can be revoked if rejected by both houses—highlighting tensions over executive overreach.

**Parliamentary Strategy and Challenges**:
   - While broad reform packages have been presented to parliament, Milei's party lacks a majority.

Title:

Content: Argentine lawmakers approve Mili reform package after marathon debate - Sunrise Gate
Saturday 3 February 2024 9: 31 AM Cairo Cairo 24 °
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Argentine lawmakers approve Melli reform package after marathon debate
DBA
Published on: Saturday 3 February 2024 - 9: 22 AM | Last updated on Saturday 3 February 2024 - 9: 22 AM
Argentina ’ s House of Representatives has approved in principle a comprehensive package of legislation presented by the ultra-liberal government led by President Javier Milley, after a three-day marathon session.
After nearly 30 hours of debate, 144 MPs voted in favor of the reform package on Friday, against 109 who voted against it.
The package, which includes some 300 laws, provides for the transfer of part of the government's legislative powers for two years, the privatization of several state-owned companies, and amendments to tax and election laws.
Once the package is approved in principle, the debate on individual laws will begin next week.
The bill must also be approved by the Senate.
Milley does not have a majority in Congress and has had to conduct intensive negotiations in recent weeks to get MPs and other parties to back his bill.
“History will remember with respect those who understood the historical context, chose to end class privileges and did something for the people who fell into poverty and hunger for years because of the political class. ”
Economist Mille, who took office in mid-December, announced radical reforms in the country amid a severe economic crisis, with inflation above 200% and about 40% of the country ’ s population living below the poverty line.
Argentina, South America ’ s second-largest economy, suffers from a bloated administrative apparatus, low industrial productivity and a vast shadow economy that denies the country crucial tax revenues.
The Argentine currency, the peso, continues to lose more value against the US dollar, and the volume of debt is steadily expanding.
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This requires him to engage in extensive negotiations with other parties and MPs.

- Despite mass protests and strong opposition—evidenced by tens of thousands gathering outside the parliament—he has managed to pass his reform package in principle, but each component will be debated and amended in detail.

Title:

Content: Argentine president's reforms pass first parliamentary test
Cairo - Al Wasat Gate Saturday 03 February 2024, 09: 58 am
Argentina ’ s lower house of parliament has taken a first step toward approving the sweeping package of economic, social and political reforms put forward by President Javier Milli ’ s government, prompting angry protests from the opposition.
The bill received “general ” approval in principle on Friday in the House of Representatives, whose members will examine Melli ’ s bills in detail next week.
Ahead of the vote, Milley, 53, said on social media that lawmakers had "the opportunity to show the side of history" they wanted to be.
“History will judge them according to their work for the benefit of Argentines or for the continued impoverishment of the people. ”
Milley won a resounding victory in October's election, benefiting from anger over decades of economic crisis in the South American nation, where annual inflation exceeds 200 percent and poverty levels reach 40 percent.
Milley began his term by devaluing the peso by more than 50 percent, cutting subsidies for fuel and transport, halving the number of ministries and scrapping hundreds of measures to liberalize the economy.
His reform package touches on many areas of public and private life, from privatization to cultural issues, penal law, divorce and the status of football clubs.
Marathon debate and protests in front of parliament
The House of Representatives tentatively approved the package by 144 votes to 109 on the third day of a marathon debate accompanied by protests and confrontations in front of parliament.
The bill may be subject to amendments before being submitted to the Senate.
Lorena Viaverdi, a member of Milley ’ s far-right Progress of Freedom party, said: “We have two clear choices: either we become the world ’ s largest slum, or we continue on this path to prosperity and freedom. ”
Argentine government withdraws tax reforms from broad bill
But opposition lawmaker Leandro Santoro cited the 2001 economic and social crisis as an example of the dangers of free market reforms, saying, “We Argentines know what happens when the economic model focuses on adjustment and deregulation. ”
On Friday, police again fired tear gas at crowds of protesters in front of parliament.
It came just over a week after tens of thousands of Argentines took to the streets in a major challenge to Melli ’ s budget-cutting policies.
In support of Melli ’ s reforms, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreed on Wednesday to disburse about $4.7 billion to Argentina.
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**International Support and Debt**:
   - The IMF has signaled support for Milei's reforms by providing a $4.7 billion loan disbursement, seen as a vote of confidence from international creditors but also as putting the country on a path of strict fiscal discipline.

What issue did Milei want to address without printing money?

**Societal Impact and Popular Response**:
   - Milei’s drastic policies have ignited widespread anxiety, protest, and debate.

Who has opposed Milei's proposed layoff order?

Many Argentines are worried about their falling purchasing power and increased economic uncertainty.

As of 2024, what are the statistics regarding poverty?

annual inflation rate of 211% is highest in 32 years

- Supporters favor his strong, transparent rhetoric and market-oriented proposals, while critics fear social crisis and institutional destabilization.

Title:

Content: Argentines await results of first round of presidential election amid sharp economic downturn
T + T - normal size
Argentines are anxiously awaiting the outcome of a presidential election on Sunday that could completely change the country ’ s political landscape, with far-right Javier Mille appearing to be the frontrunner.
Once one of the wealthiest countries in the world, Argentina has been in a recession for decades and has been unable to avoid financial crises manifested in debt, financial mismanagement and inflation that currently stands at 140 percent year-on-year.
Polls were closed on Sunday evening, with preliminary results expected within hours.
The electoral authorities announced that, according to preliminary estimates, the voter turnout was 74 percent of the 35 million registered voters.
The first round of elections will be followed by a runoff on November 19 unless one candidate wins at least 45% of the vote, or 40%, with a difference of 10 points or more than the nearest candidate.
Many voters say they are afraid and worried about what the election will entail, choosing between the two frontrunners — Javier Milley, Economy Minister Sergio Massa and former Security Minister Patricia Polrich.
Esteban Montenegro, a 24-year-old voter in Buenos Aires, said: “Of course I voted for Millie, but that doesn ’ t mean I have all the confidence in him or that I think he will do everything, but he ’ s the only one who makes strong and transparent proposals. ”
About 40 percent of the population lives in poverty and the middle class is virtually non-existent, with many voters seeing traditional parties as the architects of their misery.
Gabriela Paperini, 57, said: “We need a change, the country is in a disastrous state between poverty and inflation, people are in a bad situation. ”
She says she supports Bulrich but her daughter supports Millie, saying she believes he will get a lot of votes.
- Easy target amid faltering economy -
Milley, a liberal economist who founded Libertad Abanza (Freedom Advances) in 2021, surprised most experts and pollsters when he became the front-runner in the election, winning 30% of the vote in the primaries.
Milley, with his shaggy hair and self-portraying rock star personality, attracted voters with his vitriolic speeches on television and social media, vowing to overturn central bank policy and forgo the peso against the US dollar.
He campaigned on TikTok and YouTube, appeared at rallies with an electric saw and vowed to cut public spending by 15 percent.
Political science student Agustín Paletti, 22, says he will vote for Mili because the previous government "stripped young people of hope".
He added: “Everything is basically broken.
Millie won ’ t break anything. ”
Although Millie leads the polls, this poll does not prove
reliability in the past.
Analysts say anything can happen between the top three of the five candidates.
Economy Minister Sergio Massa represents the ruling centre-left Peronist coalition, a populist movement heavily dependent on state intervention and welfare programs that has dominated Argentine politics for decades but has lost popularity.
He has become an easy target for his rivals, especially after recent economic setbacks in his country.
To attract voters, Massa campaigned ahead of the election to cut income tax for a large part of the population, a move analysts say will only worsen the country ’ s already fragile financial situation.
To counter Mili, Massa ’ s government has done its best to explain to voters what it means to lose key subsidies that keep public transport, electricity and other services cheap.
- "Tired."
Former Secretary of Security Patricia Bulrich, who promises to take a tough approach to both economics and security, is also one of the frontrunners.
In her ministerial role under former President Mauricio Macri (2015-2019), Polrich is vowing to rigorously scrutinize the value of social assistance, cut the budget and liberalize the exchange rate, as well as put an end to the frequent demonstrations that dominate daily life in Buenos Aires.
Bollrich has not kept its promise to contain spending despite a record $44 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund that saved Argentina 22 times despite numerous defaults.
Irene Landa considers Polrich "the most cohesive" of the other candidates.
Voting for Millie would be like giving a gun to a monkey, she says, “but I think people are so fed up and so tired that they believe what he ’ s saying. ”
Andres Bornstein, an economist in Buenos Aires, says voters are fed up with “corrupt and incompetent politicians who have never cared about a principle we learn in high school, that we shouldn ’ t spend more than we earn. ”
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- Public discourse is marked by high polarization, with support for Milei often stemming more from rejection of alternatives than full confidence in his agenda.

Title:

Content: Argentina, which suffers from tensions rarely seen since the return of democratic rule 40 years ago, will see the second round of presidential elections between centrist Sergio Massa and liberal Javier Mille on Sunday.
Inflation, one of the highest rates in the world (143% in a year), poverty affecting 40% of the population despite welfare programs, crippling debt and currency depreciation, are defining the voting cycle that Argentines hope will bring them out of the economic crisis.
Despite Milley ’ s slight lead in the polls, analysts expect a “close vote. ”
Plans to revive Latin America ’ s third-largest economy appear highly conflicted.
On the one hand, Massa, 51, is a seasoned politician who held the economics portfolio for 16 months in a center-left government from which he distanced himself.
He promises a “government of national unity ” and gradual economic reform, while preserving the social welfare that is essential in Argentina.
Milley, 53, an economist who describes himself as a “anarchist capitalist, ” faces him in controversial television appearances and entered politics two years ago.
This liberal vowed to get rid of the "parasitic class", "trim the hostile state" and dollarize the economy.
The rivalry between these two candidates comes as Argentines move “from crisis to crisis, on the verge of psychological collapse, ” according to Ana Ibaragueri, an analyst at GBAO Strategies.
Prices have risen from month to month and even week to week, while wages, including the minimum wage, have fallen to 146,000 pesos ($400).
Rents have reached levels beyond the reach of many, and women heads of households barter for what they need, as happened after the severe economic crisis of 2001.
A study by the University of Buenos Aires earlier this year found that 68 percent of young people aged 18 to 29 would be willing to emigrate if given the chance.
"It's about to explode."
Matthias Issokorian, a 19-year-old student who is leaning towards Mili and his "passion" despite the lack of "political experience", said the change could be beneficial.
Maximo Alberti, an undecided student who is voting for the first time after the age of 17, believes that “the economy is about to explode, that ’ s what we ’ re seeing.
But education and public health are of great concern to me. ”
“I don ’ t like either one of them, one of them (Massa) brought problems, but the other (Millie) has very explosive thoughts. ”
The undecided, who make up 10% of the electorate according to estimates, will be decisive in the outcome of the second round.
Massa led the way in the first round with 37 percent of the vote, against 30 percent for Milley.
Despite winning the support of many “angry ” voters in the first round, Milley ’ s speech, his desire to cut public spending in a country where 51 percent of the population receives social aid, and his intention to facilitate the purchase of weapons, also raised concerns.
"Vote without fear."
The "anti-establishment" candidate toned down his rhetoric between the two rounds.
"Vote without fear, because fear is powerless and in the interests of the status quo."
Gabriel Fumarro, a professor of political science at the University of San Martin, said that what “affects now is more rejection (of one candidate or another) than support ” for one of them.
Political analyst Belén Amadeo considered that "what unites us is not love, but fear," in a quote from the famous Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges.
Ibaragiri said the only thing certain was to make “quick economic decisions that would be painful ” whoever wins on Sunday.
The country is under pressure to rein in spending and repay a $44 billion loan it received in 2018 from the International Monetary Fund due to a sharp fall in foreign exchange reserves.
Further aggravating the situation, Milley ’ s camp has in recent weeks alluded to attempts at fraud, without filing a formal complaint.
Five people were arrested on Friday and Saturday for threatening Massa and his family on social media.
"Beware of the very bad role models of (former US President Donald) Trump and (former Brazilian President Jair) Bolsonaro" for not accepting the election results, Massa said.
Some 36 million people are registered for the vote, which will take place between 8: 00 am (1100 GMT) and 6: 00 pm (2100 GMT).
The new President is scheduled to take office on 10 December.

Title:

Content: Argentina ’ s Trump was elected to scrap the central bank ’ s switch to the US dollar and freeze relations with China
▲ Argentine presidential candidate Javier Milei will take office on December 10. (Photo / Dazhi Images / Associated Press)
Journalist Wu Mei-yi / Comprehensive Report
Argentina ’ s president-elect Javier Milei, who is set to take office on December 10, has been described as an “irate far-right liberal ” and has even been dubbed“ Argentina ’ s Trump ”, vowing to fight inflation and carry out sweeping reforms, calling for the abolition of the central bank ’ s switch to the dollar, the abolition of most government ministries, the legalization of organ trade, and the freezing of relations with China.
But its victory has been praised by rightists around the world, and even Tesla CEO Musk is very optimistic.
On the night of his victory, Mirai won with 56% of the vote, far ahead of his center-left rival Sergio Massa ’ s 44%, declaring, “Today, the reconstruction of Argentina begins. ”
That night, however, the streets of Buenos Aires were filled with joy, celebration, worry and anger, with supporters excited and looking forward to the changes ahead, while leftists expressed shock and frustration.
Mirei has promised major reforms to address the “tragic reality ” of Argentina, where up to 40% of its 45 million citizens are trapped in poverty and inflation has soared to 140%.
But the Guardian says he could push South America ’ s second-largest economy into an unpredictable and potentially volatile future.
▲ Mirei supporters took to the streets to celebrate, but many people expressed concern and frustration.
(Photo / Dazhi Imaging / Associated Press)
The 53-year-old promised tax cuts, the abolition of the central bank, the abandonment of the peso to the dollar, the abolition of government ministries from 18 to 8, the phasing out of social welfare programs, and the severing of ties with two major trading partners, Brazil and China.
He opposes abortion and euthanasia, supports legalization of the sex trade, drug trade, and organ trade, and wants to privatize schools and the health care system.
Mirei was also described as eccentric, with many radical ideas, who denied the impact of climate change and questioned the history of the autocratic government ’ s crackdown on dissidents from 1976 to 1983, which killed 30,000 people and angered millions.
However, Mirei ’ s victory was also congratulated by far-right figures around the world.
Former US President Trump tweeted, "The world is watching! I am very proud of you."
You will turn your country upside down and really make Argentina great again.
“Argentina ’ s prosperity lies ahead, ” said X boss and Tesla CEO, Jair Bolsonaro, a former president of Brazil, calling it a triumph of“ honesty, progress and freedom, ” and “hope shines again in South America. ”
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Content: Argentina's President Saves Economy, 5,000 Government Employees Don't Continue Inflation, People Crash
International Center Tsai Sha-ling / General Report
Javier Milei, a far-right liberal economist known as “Trump Argentina, ” announced a“ shock therapy ” after his election as Argentina ’ s president to rescue a serious economic crisis with drastic fiscal reforms, insisting that it is normal for things to get worse until concrete results are achieved, calling on people to survive the inflationary boom, and adding to a series of reforms, including the layoffs of more than 5,000 government posts, means that Thousands of government employees will not be rehired.
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Speaking to supporters, Mirei declared that he was “unwinding the suffocating web of government control ” and changing a large number of regulations that are hindering economic growth, stressing:“ We have no choice, no time, no room for meaningless discussion. ”
Our country needs to take immediate action, "he said.
In order to reduce government spending, Mirei announced that he will not renew the contracts of government employees hired before he takes office in 2023, and that he will be sworn in as president on December 10 this year; employees hired before 2023 will not be affected for the time being, but the related contracts will also be reviewed.
The report pointed out that the 2023 as the demarcation point, apparently in response to the former president's proposed salary increase in the last year of his term.
With inflation expected to reach 200% by the end of the year, Mirei intends to accelerate measures, including privatization of state-owned companies, in the hope of boosting exports and investment, easing labor laws, reducing protections for employees, making it easier for companies to lay off workers, and banning state intervention in the rental housing market.
In addition, energy and transportation subsidies will also be cut, and some government departments will be abolished.
Whether Mirey ’ s shock therapy will save the economy is still unknown, but people have taken to the streets to protest against soaring prices.
Some economists believe that although such measures may be necessary to solve Argentina ’ s long-term financial problems, without an adequate safety net, the poorest people in society may struggle to survive and may not be able to survive until the country ’ s economy returns to normal.
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Content: Argentine president says he will be a world power again after 35 years
Author: External Submission
Published: Updated:
On November 19, local time, the second round of voting for the Argentine presidential election began.
According to Argentine media reports, Argentina has completed 99.28% of the vote count, with the "Argentine version of Trump" known as the extreme right-wing liberal economist, Congressman Javier Milei, elected the new president of Argentina with 55.69% of the vote.
This article is authorized to reprint by the Observer Network; author: Zhang Jingjuan
Later that night, Millet gave a victory speech, saying that the decline of Argentina ended today and the reconstruction began.
Argentina, he said, aims to “become a world power again ” after 35 years.
Mirai ’ s rival, Economy Minister Sergio Massa, received 44.30 percent of the vote.
Before the final results were announced, Massa had made a speech admitting that his campaign had failed.
The elected president will take office on December 10 for a four-year term.
In his victory speech, Millet said: "Today, we have turned history, Argentina's decline will come to an end, and we begin to turn a new page."
The reconstruction of Argentina begins today. "
He stressed that the situation in Argentina is very critical and requires drastic change, without gradualism or halfway through.
“We used to be the richest country in the world, and now Argentina has a future, and in 35 years, we will be a world power again. ”
Millet has previously promised to use so-called “economic shock therapy ”, he advocates“ burning ” the poorly managed central bank, abolishing the peso, shifting to “dollarization ” and slashing spending, and he has also promised to slash the number of central government departments from 18 to eight, allowing openly carrying guns, legalizing organ trade and restricting abortion.
The reforms, which Reuters sees as potentially painful, do resonate among voters angry at the economic malaise.
In recent years, Argentina has continued to face inflation and recession.
Argentina already has one of the highest inflation rates in the world, with annual inflation approaching 116%, according to reports. Since 2023, Argentina ’ s inflation rate peaked at 8.4% in April, and although later data fell, analysts believe it is likely to rebound to 7.1% in July.
Some experts predict that Argentina's gross domestic product will shrink by 3.1% in 2023, will shrink by another 0.2% in 2024, and is expected to grow by 2.5% in 2025.
“We are determined to resolve the central bank issue and to keep Argentina on a firm footing and moving forward. ”
Miley said.
According to the Constitution of Argentina, a presidential candidate needs to win more than 45% of the vote, or more than 40% of the vote and win 10% of the votes ahead of the second place in order to be directly elected.
If no candidate meets the criteria for direct election is produced, the candidate who receives the first two votes will enter the second round of voting, and the candidate who receives the highest number of votes in the second round will be elected.
According to Ambito Financiero, this will be the second time in Argentina ’ s history that a new president has been born directly in the second round of elections.
The first occurred in 2015, when Mauricio Macri, a candidate of the opposition “Change ” coalition, won the election of Daniel Scioli, a candidate of the left-wing coalition, by less than 3%, to the presidency of Argentina, ending a 12-year history of the left-wing coalition.
Massa: On November 19, 2023, Argentina ’ s presidential candidate, Economy Minister Massa, addressed supporters in Buenos Aires. (Reuters)
Before the final results were announced, Massa said he had congratulated Millet and said the responsibility for providing certainty and safeguards fell on Millet ’ s shoulders from the 20th.
“One thing that has been confirmed today is that Argentina has a democratic system that is transparent, robust and respectful of the results of elections.
I want to tell you that the result is not what we expected.
I reached out to Millet to congratulate him and to wish him good luck as he is the president chosen by most Argentines for the next four years.
Martha said.
As a candidate, Massa is a far cry from Millet ’ s plan to respond to the crisis by increasing export supplies, favoring Argentina ’ s entry into BRICS, pledging continued social support for the population, and maintaining free primary and secondary schools, universities, and hospitals.
Some described the vote as a choice between “the lesser of two evils ”: fear of Millet ’ s painful economic prescription and anger at the economic crisis caused by Massa and his Peronist party.
For Millet ’ s victory, the report said that this has shaken Argentina ’ s political landscape and economic lines, and may affect the trade in cereals, lithium and hydrocarbons.
Millet refused to cooperate with China, Brazil and Russia, and supported strengthening ties with the United States and Israel.
In addition, he opposed Argentina's accession to the BRICS.
Millet, now 53, has a diploma in economics, but his later work made him famous as a talk show and TV host. In 2018, Millet gave 235 interviews, making him the most talked-about economist of the year. In 2020, Millet joined Avanza Libertad and officially launched his political career.
Once dubbed the “Argentine version of Trump ” by the Argentinian media, Millet is known for his ability to use social media to create momentum for himself, and for his use of short film bonuses to cater to the tired and angry mentality of young people in impoverished regions who are tired of traditional politicians.
According to La Nación, Millet ’ s TikTok video about cutting public spending and reducing the number of government departments has been shown 2 million times and received 240,000 likes, which is highly sought after by young people.
Like Trump, Millet ’ s messy hair has been the focus of media attention many times, and he has repeatedly said that he does not comb his hair, which has earned him the nickname “wig ”.
According to reports, Millet is very much “adored ” Donald Trump.
After learning of Millet ’ s election, Trump himself sent a congratulatory message on social media.
Trump also adapted his own slogan, “Make Argentina Great Again! ”

Title:

Content: Argentine presidential election won by far-right Mireille
Central News Agency
Argentina ’ s far-right liberal economist Mirai was elected the next president of Argentina today, and he loves to talk about conspiracy theories and reckless style, often compared to former US President Donald Trump, and also represents Argentina ’ s choice to “turn right ” in the face of economic crisis.
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The New York Times pointed out that the 53-year-old Javier Milei is an economist and television personality with few political experience.
He touted a subversive approach to reshaping the economy and governance, shaking up traditionally closed Argentine politics.
With 95% of the vote counted, Mirei defeated centre-left rival Sergio Massa with 56% of the vote. The 51-year-old economy minister has already conceded defeat.
During his campaign, Mirei criticized taxes and spending, and proposed radical proposals such as shutting down the central bank and replacing the Argentine currency with the US dollar.
He also intends to ban abortion, loosen gun regulations, and diplomatically only consider dealing with “anti-socialist ” countries, the most common examples of which are the United States and Israel.
Some political analysts believe that Mireille's line reflects a change of heart among Argentines rather than a genuine identification with far-right ideologies.
At present, Argentina ’ s annual inflation has soared 140%, ranking third in the world. More than 2 / 5 of the country ’ s people are living in poverty, and the Argentine peso (peso) value is still falling. When the COVID-19 epidemic began in April 2020, a dollar was worth 80 pesos, but this week it has turned into nearly 1,000 pesos.
Economists and political analysts say Mirei has failed to live up to his political strength and economic conditions, which have been described as "political medicine."
His new Liberal Advances party has only seven seats in the 72-seat Senate and 38 seats in the 257-seat House of Representatives.
Mirei will be sworn in on December 10, the 40th anniversary of the first democratically elected president since the fall of Argentina ’ s military dictatorship.
Argentina today elected Javier Milei as its new president, betting on a radical outsider to fix the economy.
Although the official tally has not yet been announced, Mirei ’ s rival Sergio Massa has already conceded defeat.
Mirei promised shock therapy to save the economy, including shutting down the central bank, abandoning the peso and switching to the dollar as the official currency, and cutting spending.
These painful reforms resonate with angry voters who are struggling with the economy, but they also cause others to worry about austerity.
Cristian, 31, a restaurant worker, said at the vote today: “Mireille is new, a little bit unknown and a little scary, but it ’ s time to turn the page. ”
But Mr Mirei faces enormous challenges, including the prospect of government and central bank vaults running out, the International Monetary Fund ’ s $44 billion debt program, nearly 150% inflation and a series of dizzying capital controls.
Neither candidate fully convinced the Argentines, and some described the election as a “lesser of two evils ” choice: fearful of Mirei ’ s bailout, but more resentful of Masha ’ s ruling party, the Peronist Party, for causing today ’ s economic crisis.
Mireitt is especially popular with young Argentines, who are now growing up watching their country move from one crisis to another.
Agustina Lista, a 22-year-old student from Buenos Aires, said: “Our generation pushed Mireille into the presidency to stop us from becoming a country of untouchables. ”
In addition to reshaping Argentina ’ s political landscape and economic path, Mirei ’ s victory could also impact global trade in cereals, hydrocarbons and lithium battery raw materials.
Mirei has previously attacked China and Brazil, saying that he does not deal with the “Communist Party ” and wants to strengthen relations with the United States.
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