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The austerity measures of the last government in Argentina have pushed half of the country into poverty. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line increased to 57.4%. Austerity policies and cuts in government spending on welfare have worsened the lives of many Argentines. Job losses and falling purchasing power are the main factors in the increase in poverty, but also in homelessness. Argentine president Javier Milley’s economic policy has led to the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, frozen and cut salaries as well as food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance with public transport tickets. Miley’s far-right decision to devalue the peso, which, along with other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Even in the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people.

Photography & Text: Maro Kouri

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A couple of tango dancers perform in the Puente de la Mujer pedestrian bridge, hoping to collect some money. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. There has also been a sharp decline in economic activity. Supermarket sales have dropped, and unemployment has risen. Without price controls on essential services like electricity and gas, utility rates have soared. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. A singer in one of La Boca's taverns, in one of the most popular and touristy neighborhoods, passionately sings to earn tips from pedestrians and tourists. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. A man prays in the church of San Pedro (1734), one of the oldest churches in Buenos Aires. Sometimes, faith and trust help people get through the despair caused also by financial problems. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. A couple in love at a bar in Montserrat, one of the oldest neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. The Immigration and Colonization Act of 1880 offered incentives for Europeans to migrate, including free passage, land grants, and job opportunities. As a result, large numbers of immigrants, especially from Italy, Spain, and other parts of Europe, arrived, fleeing economic hardship and political instability in their homelands. Between 1880 and 1914, over 4 million immigrants entered Argentina, many of them settling in urban centers like Buenos Aires, Rosario, and Córdoba. Today, however, the situation has dramatically worsened. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line has risen to 57.4%. This deterioration in living standards is primarily due to the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, combined with other austerity measures, has left much of society unable to access basic goods. Public spending has been cut by about a third, particularly in critical areas such as health, social security, and education. Javier Milei's far-right economic policies have led to the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, salary freezes, cuts to food stamps, reductions in subsidies for electricity and other essentials, and even assistance for public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, the faces of ordinary people bear the marks of hardship, poverty, exhaustion, and despair.. A man drinks herbal tea from a traditional mate, at the ATIS bar, which was once the Santa Maria de Salud monastery, home to nuns since 1800. This image could be in the garden of a local's house. "Mate" is a way that brings locals together to share their feelings with friends, through conversation, culture, socialization, and hospitality. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. In the barbecue house , which called "quincho", the rancher prepares the renowned fresh meats for the barbecue, or "asados" in spanish, over the fire, known for their quality and their deliciousness. The first secret is clear: It's all about the life of the cow and what it eats! "Happy Cows" in Argentina, is a way of life. These cows live freely, basking in the sun on the plains, which is why their meat is tender. They graze on grass, not corn, which is common in other countries. Corn is difficult for cows to digest and can cause dangerous bacteria, so it’s no surprise that the Argentine method results in healthier, happier cattle. Τhe maturation process, is crucial for most cuts of meat here. Argentinians are experts when it comes to grilling, and it’s obvious that they’ve mastered the art of creating unforgettable flavors. They focus on smoking the meat rather than sealing it. The grill is lit with wood briquettes, and instead of using standard grates, they cook over volcanic stone or ceramic thermal bricks. Argentine beef doesn't need marinating – just a sprinkle of "sal parrillera" (grill salt) is enough. The natural aging process and the happy life of the cow provide an unmatched flavor. Woman at a local pub of Montserrat, one of the oldest areas of Buenos Aires. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. Tango dancer in La Boca famous and touristic neighborhood. Javier Milei's government is pushing for a reform of the Migration Law (Law 25,871) to impose stricter controls on foreign entry and residence. Inspired by leaders like Donald Trump, the libertarian administration plans to submit a project to Congress proposing significant changes to Argentina's immigration system. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. Young woman in El Ateneo Grand Splendid, one of the best known bookshops. Public universities are facing a severe financial crisis due to a drastic 70% budget cut and an inflation rate of approximately 300%. In recent months, salaries for both teaching and non-teaching staff have lost 50% of their value against inflation. With funds set to run out by July, students and faculty are facing growing uncertainty about whether classes will continue in the second half of the year. Since taking office in 2023, President Javier Milei has vowed to slash public spending, even going so far as to say that state-run universities are centres of socialist indoctrination. However, top universities are now struggling, with some warning they could be forced to close. Ricardo Gelpi, rector of the University of Buenos Aires, has stated that the institution could shut down within three months unless it receives additional funding. A mother plays with her baby at the modern Puerto Madero waterfront with the Fragata ARA Libertad (Q-2) at the background which is a steel-hulled, full-rigged sailing ship serving as a training vessel in the Argentine Navy. The stark contrast between the poverty experienced by most locals and the luxurious yachts and skylights along the Río de la Plata highlights the divide between rich and poor in the city.In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. A couple of tango dancers perform in Plaza Dorrego to earn some extra money. This square is considered a national monument, as it was the site where the people of Argentina celebrated their Independence in 1816. It is, therefore, the heart of San Telmo, the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. At the Viruta Tango club, locals come to practice their tango and milonga steps, along with many visitors, and most importantly, to forget their problems by dancing through the night. It is the largest social club in Argentina, with a diverse mix of ages and nationalities. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures, to the point where even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) might be envious. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. Miley's far-right economic policies have resulted in the dismissal of over 30,000 civil servants, as well as salary freezes and cuts, reductions in food stamps, subsidies for electricity and other basic goods, and even assistance for purchasing public transport tickets. In the heart of Buenos Aires, hardship, poverty, exhaustion and despair are etched in the faces of ordinary people. A special corner of the Attis restaurant, featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary. This building was constructed in 1890 to house the Santa María de la Salud convent. After the epidemic of yellow fever, the neighborhood of San Telmo was transformed and the convent became a residence of migrants. Tough Statement from the Catholic Church: "Food Cannot Be a Variable of Adjustment". In its first public statement since Milei's inauguration, the Executive Commission of the Argentine Episcopal Conference warned about the seriousness of the social situation, stating that "the daily bread is a cry for separation and justice" as the food crisis worsens. In an indirect response to the Minister of Human Capital, the bishops urged the continuation of assistance and support for community spaces and groups, while audits are carried out. Through a statement signed by Bishop Oscar Ojea, Argentina’s bishops acknowledged: "In our pastoral care for the simple people, who represent the majority of the population, no one should be denied food." They stressed that "in our homeland, no one should go hungry, as it is a land blessed with bread," but warned that "today, hundreds of thousands of families are finding it increasingly difficult to feed themselves properly." This is the first statement from the Catholic hierarchy since President Milei’s inauguration, days before his meeting with Pope Francis, born and lived in Argentina, reflecting the Church’s concern over the social crisis. A little Guaraní girl plays in the traditional M'bororé village of her tribe, near the Falls on the Brazilian side of Foz do Iguaçu National Park. The village of M'bororé is inhabited by the indigenous Guaraní, who once inhabited the vast expanses of the South American jungle, from the Amazon basin to nearly the mouth of the Paraná River. It is made up of various ethnic groups, united by a language of unique beauty, the cultivation of the land, and a worldview directly connected to the jungle. Their customs, fishing and hunting methods, legends, and language have survived to this day. In the last government's Argentina, inequalities widened drastically due to severe cuts and austerity measures. The percentage of the population living at or below the poverty line rose to 57.4%. Since percentages rarely tell the full story, this translates to approximately 27 million citizens. The primary cause of this deterioration in living standards was the government's decision to devalue the peso, which, alongside other measures, deprived much of society of the ability to access basic goods. Public spending has been reduced by about a third, particularly in the areas of health, social security, and education. he Indigenous people in Argentina, many of whom live in the northwest region of the country, have been treated as second-class citizens by their country for centuries. Many live in poverty and have the least access to education among the national population In Foz do Iguaçu National Park, the sound of the cascading water is overwhelming. There are moments like this moment, that I also call "the Click of my heart", when, far from what we call "civilization", that I feel in tune with abundance on every level—joy, trust, enthusiasm, a deep curiosity and gratitude in the face of this beauty, this miracle of our planet. A floating excursion through the Beagle Channe. Around Isla de los Pájaros, we observe the Fuegian birdlife: sea lions surrounded by albatrosses, A floating excursion through the Beagle Channel towards Isla de los Lobos where the fur seals are located. Perito Moreno Glacier and the floating excursion 'Nautical Safari.' Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site, which encompasses an extensive area of the continental ice field where the glaciers Moreno, Onelli, Agassi, and Upsala are formed. Undoubtedly, the most impressive is the Perito Moreno, which extends over the waters of Lake Argentino and features a 5-kilometer wide wall with a height of 70 meters above the water level. Perito Moreno Glacier and the floating excursion 'Nautical Safari.' Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site, which encompasses an extensive area of the continental ice field where the glaciers Moreno, Onelli, Agassi, and Upsala are formed. Undoubtedly, the most impressive is the Perito Moreno, which extends over the waters of Lake Argentino and features a 5-kilometer wide wall with a height of 70 meters above the water level. In Cape San Pablo, off the Atlantic Ocean, lies the mysterious giant, "Desdaimonas," a ship that has been abandoned for nearly 40 years. A mural depicting the Beagle Channel towards Isla de los Lobos and the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse - known as the Lighthouse at the End of the World- with the city of Ushuaia in the background. Located on the wall of an old, local fish restaurant in downtown Ushuaia. Regarding Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego is known as the southernmost city in the world. It is said about this place: "Donde la tierra se acaba" which means"where earth finishes". Ushuaia marks the southernmost point of the American continent and, perhaps, one of the purest airs on the planet. The nature of Patagonia awakens the senses. Unlike other regions of the country where the culture has to do with the roots of the place, here, with the disappearance of the original towns, this transmission was interrupted. The knowledge of the ancient cultures did not reach the current generations. The society of emigrants still needs to establish a deeper sense of belonging or connection. We are few kilometers from Ushuaia, where migration, the housing crisis, urban decay, and environmental destruction have led to a state of chaos. The remedy for the fear of further ruin—caused by rising poverty, unemployment, homelessness, and hunger due to far-right government policies and strict austerity measures in Argentina—is the harmony we find in Mother Earth, in nature. The route is like life and the difficult things just have to be overcome. The good things often lie just around the next bend. Let's be grateful by acknowledging what we do have this moment, let's feel present, right here, right now. I am grateful for being in this uniquely beautiful country where I've connected with the dignity of the locals, their passion for life, for evolution, dance, the art of flirting all aspects of existence and for the openness this country has offered me as an opportunity in my life. Thank you Argentina! Lake Escondido, a remedy for body and soul! Regarding Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego is known as the southernmost city in the world. It is said about this place: "Donde la tierra se acaba" which means"where earth finishes". Ushuaia marks the southernmost point of the American continent and, perhaps, one of the purest airs on the planet. The nature of Patagonia awakens the senses. Unlike other regions of the country where the culture has to do with the roots of the place, here, with the disappearance of the original towns, this transmission was interrupted. The knowledge of the ancient cultures did not reach the current generations. The society of emigrants still needs to establish a deeper sense of belonging or connection. We are few kilometers from Ushuaia, where migration, the housing crisis, urban decay, and environmental destruction have led to a state of chaos. The remedy for the fear of further ruin—caused by rising poverty, unemployment, homelessness, and hunger due to far-right government policies and strict austerity measures in Argentina—is the harmony we find in Mother Earth, in nature.
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