Javier Milei on LGBT Rights
Javier Milei's presidency has been characterized by a significant retraction of rights and institutional support for the LGBTQ+ community in Argentina, a country long considered progressive in Latin America on these issues. His administration enacted several measures aiming to reduce public spending, which resulted in the elimination of agencies that defended the rights of sexual and gender minorities.
Key actions included closing the National Institute Against Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Racism (INADI), which was responsible for supporting victims of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Furthermore, the government dismissed transgender individuals hired under the previous administration's Trans Labor Quota Law, which reserved at least one percent of public sector jobs for transgender people.
Although Milei did not heavily focus on LGBTQ+ rights during his initial campaign, his political alignment and the statements of his allies signaled concerns. He had previously stated plans to close the Ministry of Women, Gender and Diversity, which handles LGBTQ+ equality, and has engaged in what his critics call a "cultural battle" against feminism, which often intersects with LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Context
The status of LGBT Rights in Argentina is a significant context for Javier Milei's presidency, as the country has historically been a regional leader in progressive legislation. This context makes the administration's actions to dismantle protective agencies particularly noteworthy.
Milei is described as a right-wing libertarian, which often aligns with conservative social positions despite his advocacy for laissez-faire economics. His stated opposition to what he terms "gender ideology" and his anti-abortion stance place him in direct opposition to many established LGBTQ+ rights achievements.
Actions Taken
- Institutional rollbackClosed the National Institute Against Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Racism (INADI), an agency providing support against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Employment policy changeDismissed transgender people who had been hired under the previous government's Trans Labor Quota Law, which mandated a minimum of 1% of public sector jobs for transgender individuals.
- Institutional rollbackClosed the Ministry of Women, Gender and Diversity, an agency that addressed LGBTQ+ equality.
- Healthcare restrictionDecree restricting minors' access to gender-affirming surgeries and hormone treatment was implemented.
Criticism
Expressed 'a great deal of concern' over the hostile language used by Milei and his allies, fearing an increase in homophobia and transphobia, and expecting 'even more aggression'.
Stated that Milei's statements reflect 'a hatred and resentment from conservative sectors' in response to advances made by women and LGBTQ+ collectives.
What Others Say
His Vice President, Victoria Villarruel, has expressed opposition to same-sex marriage and suggested sex education should focus only on 'biological content,' excluding topics like anal sex or transgender people.
A newly elected lawmaker ally of Milei, Ricardo Bussi, criticized the landmark 2020 law reserving state jobs for trans people.
Sources5
Javier Milei rolls back LGBTQ rights in Argentina during first year in office
Is Javier Milei a threat to LGBTQIA+ rights gains in Argentina?
Is Argentina's Milei a threat to LGBTQ+ rights gains?
Milei's attacks on the LGBTQ+ community spark call for historic national mobilization
Can someone explain about Milei and lgbt rights?
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.