Javier Milei Slashes Public Spending in Argentina by 30%

In Argentina, President Javier Milei has implemented significant cuts to government expenditures within just ten months of taking office. The austerity measures include a substantial 30% reduction in state spending, which has sharply increased poverty rates by eleven percentage points. Following the principles outlined in Project 2025, a plan associated with Donald Trump's potential second term, Milei has discontinued nine ministries, including those focused on education and gender issues. This aligns with efforts to remove progressive terms related to gender and rights in government operations. Milei's actions are reflective of a broader right-wing agenda aimed at reducing the state's role and influence over social issues. By prioritizing fiscal measures over social welfare, the administration has faced criticism for its approach, which jeopardizes the well-being of vulnerable populations. Additionally, the administration has targeted civil servants who disagree with or challenge this new direction, reinforcing a culture of compliance. The Heritage Foundation has played a role in shaping these policies, indicating a premeditated strategy for governance that could be mirrored in the U.S. if Trump were to return to power. Notably, the administration has withdrawn support for reproductive health initiatives, further illustrating its conservative leanings. Overall, the measures taken by Milei serve as a case study in the application of extreme right-wing policies, drawing parallels to the anticipated governance strategies of a Trump-led administration. These shifts present both immediate and long-term challenges for Argentina as it navigates the implications of such drastic policy changes.