Pope Leo XIV has criticised Argentina’s economic policies under President Javier Milei, urging the government to prioritise vulnerable citizens as he began a historic visit to the South American country.
The pontiff made the remarks during his first public address in Buenos Aires on Sunday, November 8, where he called for responsible leadership, democratic accountability and economic policies that benefit the wider population.
“The economy must serve the person, not the person the economy,” Leo said, stressing that economic growth should improve people’s living conditions rather than deepen existing inequalities.
His comments come amid controversy over Milei’s austerity programme, which has introduced sweeping public spending cuts aimed at reducing inflation and stabilising Argentina’s economy.
POPE CALLS FOR RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP
Addressing Argentine authorities, civil society representatives and diplomats, Leo emphasised the importance of democratic institutions and responsible governance.
“Authority is most authentic when it is exercised as service,” the pope said, urging political leaders to recognise the limits of their power and direct their decisions towards the common good.
He also warned that democracy required citizens to respect differing opinions and work towards national unity despite political disagreements.
Milei, who welcomed the pontiff during his visit, defended his economic philosophy, arguing that individual freedoms and property rights remain fundamental to Argentina’s political and economic system.
The president has maintained that spending cuts are necessary to restore economic stability after years of financial difficulties and persistent inflation.
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MILLIONS ATTEND PAPAL MASS
Leo’s visit attracted enormous crowds in Buenos Aires, where approximately 2.5 million people attended an outdoor Mass at the Monumento de los Españoles on Monday, according to figures cited by the Associated Press.
The gathering was among the largest events of his papacy and marked the first papal Mass in Argentina in nearly four decades.
During the ceremony, the pontiff highlighted the challenges confronting Argentine families, including unemployment, economic hardship, violence and addiction.
He urged society to strengthen support for families and communities facing difficulties, describing them as essential foundations of national life.
DISABILITY CARE BECOMES CENTRAL ISSUE
Earlier on Monday, Leo visited the Cottolengo Don Orione centre in Claypole, south of Buenos Aires, which accommodates more than 400 people with disabilities.
The institution has reportedly faced financial difficulties following reductions in government spending on healthcare and social services.
Speaking during his visit, the pope described people with disabilities as a blessing rather than a burden and urged Argentina to measure its progress by how it treats vulnerable citizens.
“A nation’s progress is also measured by how it welcomes all people with disabilities and particular needs,” he said.
The visit has drawn attention to concerns surrounding disability assistance, with care institutions reportedly struggling to meet operational costs following funding reductions.
FIRST PAPAL VISIT SINCE 1987
Leo’s three-day visit to Argentina represents the first papal trip to the country since 1987, when Pope John Paul II visited the predominantly Catholic nation.
Argentina is also the birthplace of the late Pope Francis, whose social teachings frequently emphasised poverty, inequality and the responsibilities of political leadership.
Leo’s 12-day South American tour began in Uruguay before proceeding to Argentina, with Peru expected to be the final destination.
The visit comes as Argentina continues to debate the social consequences of Milei’s economic reforms, particularly their impact on pensioners, public universities, healthcare services and people with disabilities.
