Struggling Argentines Amid Soaring Poverty and Austerity Measures

Irma Casal, a woman from Buenos Aires, struggles with three jobs to make ends meet amidst rising poverty in Argentina. President Javier Milei's austerity measures have led to a projected poverty rate soaring over 50%, though recent welfare expansions offer some respite.

In Buenos Aires, 53-year-old Irma Casal juggles three jobs as a garbage recycler, cardboard collector, and bricklayer, yet she still grapples with making ends meet. Like many Argentines, Casal is hit hard by rising poverty rates expected to climb over 50% under the economic policies of libertarian President Javier Milei, who has enacted stringent austerity measures aiming to tackle national debt.

"Since this government came to power, jobs have dropped away. We work twice as hard for less and we have to keep going," said Casal, a resident of Villa Fiorito with 14 children and 42 grandchildren. Official data for the first half of the year will reveal the extent of poverty's rise since Milei's December takeover, expected to show a substantial increase from the 41.7% recorded in late 2023.

While Milei's fiscal austerity wins market and investor approval for balancing state finances, it has plunged the nation into deep recession. The Catholic University of Argentina estimates poverty spiked to 55.5% in early 2024 before moderating to 49.4% later. Agustin Salvia, director of the university's observatory, noted severe cuts initially exacerbated poverty but recent signs indicate easing hardship. The government has expanded welfare programs, including the Universal Child Allowance and Food Card, providing some relief for struggling families.

(With inputs from agencies.)