Javier Milei's presidency has brought significant and controversial changes to Argentina, marked by drastic austerity measures aimed at reducing the size of the government. Over the past five months, Argentina's Deregulation Ministry has closed more than 200 government offices and entities, emphasizing the administration's commitment to slashing state expenditures. Federico Sturzenegger, the director of this ministry, took to social media to share the closures, stating, "Come in and take a look. You’ll laugh and cry.” The list of closed sectors includes areas focused on climate change, gender and diversity policies, human rights, and community development.
Maximiliano Fariña, Secretary of State and Public Service Transformation, elaborated on the government's view of these sectors, saying, "We found areas...that should fall on the provinces or municipalities, which goes against federalism.” This stance reflects Milei's broader goal of downsizing the government and shifting many responsibilities to private or regional entities.
The administration's actions have set off heated debates, especially concerning the closure of the Women, Gender, and Diversity Ministry. Presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni described the ministry's closure as "a great memory," citing claims of increased femicide rates during its operation. According to data from the Argentine Supreme Court, femicides rose by 11% from 2022 to 2023, with 250 reported victims this year.
While the Milei administration claims to have achieved measurable successes, such as reducing inflation and the public deficit, critics point to rising unemployment and cost-of-living increases due to cuts to social programs. Nicolás Mayoraz, National Deputy for La Libertad Avanza party, praised the government's approach, reflecting on the administration's ability to pass significant legislation with limited representation in Congress. He stated, "All macroeconomic variables are very positive...and we are beginning to see signs of economic reactivation,” expressing optimism for continued growth.
Beyond fiscal policy, Milei has launched ambitious plans for the country’s energy future, particularly focusing on nuclear energy as a solution to support the advancing artificial intelligence sector. Chief advisor Demian Reidel announced the "Argentine Nuclear Plan" which positions nuclear energy as central to Argentina's energy independence. "This is an ambitious plan symbolizing nuclear energy’s role as one of the cornerstones of Argentina’s energy future," Reidel noted, showcasing the government's commitment to clean energy.
The first step of this initiative involves establishing small modular reactors at the Atucha site, consolidative of local technology and capabilities. Reidel emphasized the importance of using Argentine engineering talent, affirming, "We will do so with 100% Argentine technology, developed by our nuclear engineers, who are recognized among the best in the world.” This initiative has the backing of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), underscoring Argentina's potential future leadership in nuclear energy.
Another area of Milei's presidency is the cultural shift he is aiming for among the population, aiming to reshape societal norms and attitudes. His administration has taken significant steps to dismantle what they perceive as bloated and ineffective government structures, fulfilling Milei's promise of shock therapy for the economy. This radical approach is compared to the tactics of other global leaders known for their unorthodox methods, including Donald Trump.
Yet, the approach raises questions about the repercussions for Argentina’s long-term economic viability and social welfare. Critics argue the cuts could eventually lead to increased poverty and social inequities, particularly among vulnerable groups who traditionally rely on government support. The closure of agencies dedicated to social development, such as one with over 1,300 employees, has raised concerns about who will help those most impacted by these transitions.
While the Milei administration seeks to enact these sweeping reforms, it is expected to face scrutiny from voters during the upcoming elections, scheduled for October 2025. At this point, projections suggest potential growth for the La Libertad Avanza party, hoping to increase its representation from the current 38 deputies to around 80. Mayoraz reiterated the confidence within the party, stating, "We want to at least double the number of deputies and reach 80 representatives."
The stakes are high as Milei continues his agenda, with the public eagerly observing whether these radical changes will bear fruit or exacerbate already precarious conditions for many Argentinians. His presidency, now one year old, embodies the conflicting visions for Argentina's future—one oriented toward reform and austerity versus social welfare and security.
