Libertarian supporters at the inauguration last December of new Argentine President Javier Milei. Photo Shutterstock Text Youssef el Khattabi
WUR is incredibly diverse, with hundreds of internationals working and studying here. In the Meanwhile In column, we ask one of them to comment on certain events in their home country. This time we hear from Lucía Fernández (24), a Master’s student in Biology from Argentina, about the current political unrest and economic reforms.
Fernández: ‘Argentina is facing a turbulent period following the election of Javier Milei, a far-right politician. His radical economic policies, including deep cuts to public spending and subsidies, have sparked widespread protests across the country. Many people are worried about the severe social impact these reforms could have, particularly on the most vulnerable.
The economic situation in Argentina has been dire for years, with skyrocketing inflation and a devalued peso. Milei’s measures are intended to stabilize the economy, but the lack of social protections is causing significant concern. Internationally, there’s fear that Argentina’s political landscape could become more polarized, affecting relationships with other nations.
My friends and family studying abroad are anxious about these changes. Many of our families are struggling with the immediate effects of these reforms, especially those on fixed incomes, like retirees. It’s hard to watch from afar, knowing the challenges they face. I and my friends living abroad don’t know if we want to go back to Argentina. There’s a part of us that wants to help the country and support the Argentinian people in the struggles they have been facing for a long time.
The future of Argentina is uncertain. The next few months will be critical in determining whether the government can manage these reforms without further destabilizing the country. We hope for the best, but the situation remains precarious, and we fear for the social and economic well-being of our people.’
