Argentina turning? Milei’s surprising political success
Jun 21, 2024
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Kinley Salmon, The Economist's Latin America correspondent, explores Javier Milei’s surprising political rise in Argentina amidst economic challenges and radical reforms. Catherine Nixey discusses the precarious situation of the Conservative Party in Britain, revealing voter sentiments ahead of a pivotal election. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe honors Birubala Rabha, an activist who fought against witch-hunting in India, detailing her powerful journey from victim to change-maker. Each guest brings a unique perspective on pressing global issues.
President Milei faces economic challenges in Argentina, including an overvalued peso and potential inflation risks.
In the UK, Conservative Party turmoil signals potential losses in the upcoming general election amid scandals and declining public support.
Deep dives
Argentina's President Millet Faces Economic Challenges
Argentina's libertarian president, Javier Millet, faces challenges governing as he navigates an economy in crisis. Despite passing legislation and achieving some success in stabilizing the economy, issues such as the overvalued peso, potential inflation risks, and unclear long-term economic plans pose significant hurdles. The passage of controversial bills granting emergency powers and enhancing tax revenue collection has sparked protests and uncertainty about the effectiveness of these measures.
Tories Struggle in British General Election Campaign
In the UK, the Conservative Party, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, faces turmoil amid scandals and waning public support ahead of the general election. Investigations into insider betting and declining polls signal potential losses for top Conservative figures like Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. The electorate's mood reflects anger and dissatisfaction towards the government, with voters seeking a change from the current Tory administration.
Birubala Rabha's Fight Against Witch Hunting in India
Birubala Rabha, a tribal woman from Assam, bravely campaigned to end the heinous practice of witch hunting in India. Facing personal accusations of witchcraft, she defied superstitions and fought for the rights of women wrongly targeted as witches. Through her advocacy and activism, she lobbied for legislative changes that criminalized witch accusations and provided protection for the accused. Her unwavering determination saved lives and challenged societal norms, leaving a lasting impact on the fight against witch hunting in India.
Since his election last year, President Javier Milei has enjoyed some economic and political wins in Argentina. But his toughest fight is yet to come. On Britain’s general election trail, our correspondent found voters less keen on the prospect of a Labour victory than on punishing the Conservative party at the polls (10:00). And remembering Birubala Rabha, who campaigned against witch-hunting in India (18.35).