New Argentine President Faces Backlash Over Economic Measures and Crackdown on Protests
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — President Javier Milei’s government in Argentina has announced drastic economic measures that have sparked anger among social and labor groups, and a warning of a crackdown on protests blocking streets.
The right-wing populist, who took office just days ago, faces his first test on Wednesday as demonstrations are expected in response to the economic shock measures. Milei has defended the measures as necessary to address Argentina’s severe crisis, which includes soaring inflation and rising poverty.
The measures include a 50% devaluation of the Argentine peso, cuts to energy and transportation subsidies, and the closure of some government ministries. In response to potential protests, the government has introduced a new “protocol” aimed at maintaining public order, allowing federal forces to clear people blocking streets without a judicial order and authorizing the police to identify protesters obstructing public thoroughfares.
The protocol has drawn criticism from some groups who argue that it goes too far and criminalizes the right to protest. Argentine labor, social, and human rights groups have signed a petition asking the United Nations and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to intercede against the new security protocol, citing it as incompatible with constitutional rights to free assembly, association, expression, and protest.
Furthermore, the government has announced that people who block streets could be removed from public assistance benefit lists if they are receiving support. This announcement has drawn criticism from social groups who argue that it is an attempt to discourage protests.
In response to the government’s actions, some social groups have called for protests in Buenos Aires on Wednesday. The new president’s administration has also faced criticism for their stance on protests, with one social group leader accusing the government of planning to go “against the right to protest.”
The timing of the protests coincides with the 22nd anniversary of a protest against the government’s handling of an economic crisis that led to the resignation of then-President Fernando de la Rúa.
A recent poll showed that 65% of those surveyed agree with banning the blockades. Milei, a 53-year-old economist known for his outspoken and profanity-laden tirades against the political establishment, became president with the support of Argentines disillusioned with the country’s economic crisis. Argentina currently faces an annual inflation rate of 161%, with four out of every 10 people living in poverty and a $45 billion debt owed to the International Monetary Fund.