Argentina: Pope Leo XIV urges Milei's government to protect the most vulnerable

On the first full day of his visit to Argentina, Pope Leo XIV urged the Milei government to safeguard the most vulnerable members of society, with a particular emphasis on individuals with disabilities. The pontiff's message came as he toured Cottolengo Don Orione, a care centre in Claypole, south of Buenos Aires, which has been impacted by the austerity measures implemented by the Milei administration.

The facility, established in 1935 by an Italian priest, houses over 400 people with disabilities on a 50-hectare site. It has faced challenges due to cuts in health and social services, as well as funding difficulties for specialized care and therapy programs. During his visit, Pope Leo XIV interacted with residents in wheelchairs, hugged them, and offered his blessings. His presence brought tears to the eyes of some workers and residents.

At the centre's chapel, the Holy Father defended the dignity of all people, calling for the restoration of solidarity in the face of the pursuit of economic success and the cult of appearances. He emphasized that a nation's progress is measured by its treatment of people with disabilities and those with particular needs.

The Pope's stance on disability rights carries significant weight, as Argentina has experienced tension between the government and organizations working in the field. Last year, Congress overturned Milei's veto of a law to increase funding for this sector, but the executive has since resisted implementing it, citing concerns about the fiscal balance.

As a result, care centres like Cottolengo have accumulated outstanding debts of hundreds of thousands of euros. Additionally, government austerity measures have affected specialized therapy programs that have been crucial for the approximately five million people with disabilities living in Argentina.

The papal visit occurs just days before the Senate is set to review a bill that would reserve funds for disability benefits in the upcoming budget. However, Milei opposes this proposal. During his visit, Pope Leo XIV met with business representatives, trade union leaders, and representatives of popular movements at the Catholic University of Argentina.

The meeting aimed to highlight the importance of putting vulnerable people at the center of economic decisions, a principle that echoes the legacy of Pope Francis, who was Argentine by birth.