More than half of Argentina’s 46 million people are now living in poverty, with the rate rising to 52.9% in the first half of this year, up from 41.7% in late 2023. President Javier Milei’s austerity measures, including subsidy cuts and civil servant layoffs, aim to curb inflation and government spending. Despite achieving fiscal surpluses, Argentina’s inflation remains over 230%. Government spokesperson Manuel Adorni blamed previous Peronist administrations for the economic crisis. Milei’s policies face strong opposition, particularly from trade unions protesting their impact on workers’ rights.