Seniors actively engaged in Argentina's heated political arena
In the heart of Argentina, a group of pensioners have become the country's most prominent and emotive source of opposition, rallying against President Javier Milei's stance on pension increases.
President Milei, known for his economically ultraliberal policies and cost-cutting zeal, has twice vetoed moves by Congress to raise pensions. This decision has left nearly half of Argentina's 7.8 million retirees receiving a mere US$260 a month, an amount estimated to be less than a third of the cost of basic goods needed by the elderly.
Among the pensioners leading the charge is Beatriz Blanco, an 81-year-old woman who was given the nickname "gangster retiree" by the government for allegedly assaulting police officers. Another pensioner, 87-year-old Ricardo Migliavacca, has also been participating in weekly protests against President Milei.
Blanco, who was pushed by a policeman and suffered head injuries during a protest in March, has been a vocal advocate for the pensioners' cause. "You can't live like this," she stated, "Especially not as an elderly person. People need moments of joy."
The pensioners, although not physically defending themselves, are "constantly being beaten" according to political scientist Ivan Schuliaquer. However, the political scientist who stated this in the news has not been explicitly named in the provided search results.
Schuliaquer's sentiment is echoed by historian Felipe Pigna, who warns that the harsh security response to the pensioners could be desensitizing Argentines to political violence. Amnesty International reported 1,155 injuries and 33 injuries from rubber bullets to the head or face during the protests last year.
Many of the pensioners involved in the protests have a history of activism dating back to the 1960s. Their determination and resilience have not gone unnoticed, with Beatriz Blanco becoming a symbol of their struggle.
The pensioners are seeking a pension increase to counteract price increases, a demand that has gained emotional and academic support. As the protests continue, the future of Argentina's pension policies remains uncertain, with the pensioners showing no signs of backing down.
