The Fifth Floor: Javier Milei's first year in power
Dec 7, 2024
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Verónica Smink, a BBC Mundo journalist, reports from Buenos Aires on President Javier Milei's unique approach to leadership. They discuss his chainsaw campaign promise and controversial austerity measures, highlighting their impact on vulnerable citizens. Christine Otieno from BBC Africa shares insights into her work revealing and restoring thousands of old portraits in Uganda, exploring the emotional connections these images foster within families and communities. Together, they navigate the intersection of politics and cultural heritage.
Javier Milei's drastic austerity measures led to immediate economic challenges, including rising poverty, yet inflation rates began to stabilize.
His administration's aggressive approach to reducing crime has shown results, particularly in lowering homicide rates, but raises concerns about civil liberties.
Deep dives
Javier Millet's Rise to Power
Javier Millet, a right-wing economist and flamboyant politician, emerged as Argentina's president following a surprising electoral victory. Known for his eccentric personality and unconventional campaign tactics, such as brandishing a chainsaw to symbolize drastic budget cuts, Millet captured the public's attention by promising significant change. His appeal particularly resonates with younger demographics, especially men under 35, who see him as a genuine alternative to traditional politicians. The urgency for change in Argentina's political landscape played a crucial role in his ascension, signaling a desire for a departure from the status quo among voters.
Economic Policies and Consequences
Upon assuming office, Millet immediately implemented severe austerity measures, drastically slashing public spending which resulted in immediate economic repercussions such as a significant rise in poverty levels. Although he justified these cuts as necessary for addressing inflation and promoting a more honest assessment of prices, the short-term effects have been devastating for many Argentinians already struggling with rising costs. Critics highlight his lack of empathy towards those affected by his policies, particularly pensioners who feel the brunt of austerity measures, while his supporters acknowledge that inflation rates have begun to stabilize. The mixed reactions to his economic policies reveal the complexities and challenges of governing in a crisis-stricken country.
Focus on Security and Crime
Millet's administration has also spotlighted security issues, particularly in cities plagued by drug-related violence and crime. Upon taking office, he appointed a strong security minister and deployed federal forces to combat rising homicide rates, especially in Rosario, which had become notorious for crime. This decisive approach has yielded results, with reported drops in homicide rates, earning him public approval for addressing such urgent matters. However, his administration's efforts to curtail protests have sparked debate about the balance between maintaining order and preserving civil liberties, highlighting the ongoing tension in his leadership style.
Argentina's president Javier Milei famously campaigned with a chainsaw, promising he would cut public spending. Has he delivered? Verónica Smink of BBC Mundo will bring us the latest from Buenos Aires. Plus, how thousands of old portrait pictures were found and restored in Uganda, with BBC Africa's Christine Otieno.