Pope Leo XIV rebukes President Milei's austerity policy during Argentina visit

Pope Leo XIV, head of the Roman Catholic Church, sharply criticised the harsh austerity policies of Argentine President Javier Milei in a speech in Buenos Aires on Sunday, insisting that growth must benefit everyone. It is the first papal visit to Argentina in nearly four decades, and it comes as the country remains divided after three years of Milei's spending cuts.

"The economy must be at the service of the people, rather than people being at the service of the economy," Leo said. He drew attention to those who, despite hard work, struggle to meet their households' needs. The pope called for particular concern for people affected by illness, dependency and disability, seen as a veiled reference to the government's controversial cuts to disability assistance. He also said that strengthening democracy requires a willingness to listen and careful use of words, and stressed the importance of personal integrity in public office.

The visit and its aims

Leo, 71, has begun a 12-day Latin American tour just three weeks after surgery for lung cancer. He arrived in Argentina from Uruguay, where he condemned drug violence and urged an end to child poverty. Argentina is the home country of the late Pope Francis, and Leo said he was retracing his predecessor's steps. Milei had previously insulted Francis for his pro-poor teachings, though he softened his tone after taking office.

During the visit the pope will go to a home for disabled people and a prison, and will celebrate three open-air masses. The church expects 7 million people to attend the events. A University of Buenos Aires poll found that 57.7% of people identify as Catholic, down from about 90% in the 1960s.

Economic background

Milei took office promising to revive the economy and tame inflation by shrinking the welfare state, targeting public hospitals, universities and pensioners in particular. The poverty rate rose to 32.3% in September. The local Catholic church has heavily criticised him, but Milei retains a loyal base of supporters for sharply reducing inflation.