Argentina Reasserts Pledge Not to Close Public Universities Amid Protests
The Facts
A spokesperson for Argentina's Pres. Javier Milei reaffirmed in a press conference on Wednesday that the closure or defunding of public universities has never been on the agenda, stressing that authorities do plan to audit their spending.
This comes as thousands of Argentines rallied on Tuesday to demand increased funding for public universities, amid claims that the institutions could be forced to shut down in the upcoming months otherwise.
The Spin
Narrative A
Argentines have been proud of their education system for generations, so it's no surprise that demonstrations for public universities have rocked the country. As the middle class has now set a red line for Milei's radical economic adjustment, he should act on that message sooner rather than later.
Narrative B
Milei is taking the tough economic calls necessary in the current climate. On the brink of an economic collapse, Argentina must bring spending under control to restore fiscal responsibility. Whether the middle class likes it or not, sound finances are key to the country's recovery.
