elpais.com
Milei's First Year: Inflation Down, Poverty Up, Popularity Stable
President Milei's first year in office saw Argentina grapple with 50% poverty, 18% indigence, and deep recession, yet his popularity persists due to inflation reduction (from 12.8% to 2.4%), support from the informal economy, and a fragmented opposition.
- What explains President Milei's enduring popularity despite implementing drastic austerity measures?
- Milei's popularity stems from addressing a previously ignored segment: the informal economy. His policies, while drastically reducing the state, have resonated with this group, contrasting with a fragmented opposition lacking social acceptance and ideas. The success of lowering inflation (from 12.8% to 2.4%) has also contributed.
- How can Argentina endure extreme poverty and indigence without widespread revolt, yet be destabilized by high inflation?
- Argentina's high poverty (50%, up 10% year-on-year) and indigence (18%, up from 12%) rates alongside a deep recession haven't triggered the same societal unrest as its hyperinflation (200%, 120%, even 35% annually). This discrepancy is key to understanding President Milei's continued popularity.
- What are the potential long-term economic and social consequences of Milei's ultraliberal policies, and how might these interact with global economic trends?
- Milei's ultraliberal 'social engineering' faces external risks, particularly potential conflicts with a protectionist US administration under President Trump. His proposed tax cuts (90% reduction) and fiscal reforms, aiming for a 'minimal state', risk exacerbating inequality unless coupled with robust social safety nets for the most vulnerable. The long-term economic effects of his policies are still uncertain.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Milei's actions and policies in a largely positive light, emphasizing his success in reducing inflation and his popularity despite economic hardship. While acknowledging the negative aspects of his policies (e.g., reduced social spending), the framing downplays their potential negative impact and highlights his political maneuvering as evidence of success. The headline, if there were one, would likely present a favorable interpretation of Milei's first year.
Language Bias
The language used to describe Milei's actions is often positive or neutral, even when describing potentially harmful policies. Phrases such as "radical engineering experiment", "cruzada contra unas élites desprestigiadas", and "dinamita a los cimientos del Estado" present Milei's actions with a certain dynamism, without adequately capturing the negative social and economic consequences. The use of phrases like "magra representación" (meager representation) to describe his party's legislative position offers a subtly positive slant.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on Milei's actions and policies, but omits substantial discussion of the social and economic consequences of those policies. The suffering of the population due to poverty, indigence, and recession is mentioned, but the specific impacts of Milei's policies on these issues are not thoroughly explored. There is little analysis of the potential long-term effects of his drastic fiscal and economic measures. The perspectives of those negatively affected by his policies are largely absent.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the political landscape, portraying a dichotomy between Milei and a fragmented, unappealing opposition. It overlooks the complexities of Argentine politics and the potential for alternative solutions or coalitions. The portrayal of Milei's policies as either 'good' (reducing inflation) or 'bad' (reducing state spending) lacks nuance.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant increase in poverty and indigence rates in Argentina under Milei's presidency, indicating a negative impact on efforts to reduce poverty. The 50% poverty rate (10% higher than the previous year) and 18% indigence rate (up from 12%) directly contradict SDG 1 targets.