The Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) cordially invites you to the following hybrid event:
Argentina: Democracy and Human Rights Under President Javier Milei
On December 10, 2023, Argentina inaugurated President Javier Milei, a self-proclaimed ‘anarcho-capitalist’ libertarian and right-wing populist economist, marking a significant departure from conventional Argentinian politics. Milei, an eccentric “outsider” transitioned from an anonymous citizen to a political force as a national deputy for Buenos Aires after gaining popularity by harshly criticizing the political status quo. His colorful attacks on traditional politicians, whom he calls the “political caste”, resonated with most Argentines, leading him to secure 56 percent of the vote in the elections. Some explain that Milei’s rise was a response to public dissatisfaction with the existing political system.
The economic crisis, rampant corruption, the pandemic, and social media influenced many voters. Milei promised to root out corruption, solve the financial crisis, and cut public spending. His bombastic and controversial statements using a chainsaw to symbolize cutting the government led many to worry about whether he’d uphold democratic institutions and human rights. Once in office, he devalued the peso, advanced an economic austerity plan, and tried to overhaul or change a long list of laws. Six months later, annual inflation is at 298.4 percent, and markets are improving, but living costs are high and wages stagnant. Despite this and wide-scale protests, Milei’s popularity remains around 50 percent. Join us to hear the executive director of the Center for Legal and Social Studies (CELS) analyze the current state of democracy and human rights in Argentina.
Featuring:
Paula Litvachky
Executive Director, Centro de Estudios Legales y Sociales (CELS)
Moderator:
Gimena Sánchez-Garzoli
Director for the Andes, WOLA
LOCATION:
Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA)
1666 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 400
Washington, D.C. 20009
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