Javier Milei has only been President of Argentina for a few days – he was officially inaugurated on December 10th – but he already has plans in place for any protests to come in Argentina. The revelation comes in the wake of Milei announcing sweeping economic changes.
Among the measures announced on Tuesday, December 12th, by the Ministry of Economy is a further devaluation of the peso Argentino from 400 to the dollar to more than 800 to the dollar. But that’s not all, as Milei plans to continue devaluating the peso an additional 2% each month.
On top of that, Milei is cutting down government spending and subsidies. This means that regular citizens are likely to see less money in their pockets in the short term, with the peso devalued and basic services, gas, and transportation more expensive. Economists warn it might be the only way to make Argentina competitive and reduce the country’s trade deficit.
The immediate economic impact is expected to be harsh, with the country’s economy projected to go into recession in 2024. This is why Milei and his new Security Minister, Patricia Bullrich, have prepared a plan to counter expected protests – particularly those blocking streets.
The first few days of Milei’s presidency had already seen protests against the new President.
“We are going to bring order the country so that people can live in peace.” Bullrich said. “The streets are not to be taken. If people take to the streets, there will be consequences.”
Bullrich also said that the Javier Milei government will create a registry of social organizations that “instigate” protests, and that they will be sending bills for the expenses of each protest to those responsible. “The State is not going to pay for the use of the Security forces, organizations with legal status or individuals will have to pay.”