The Pontiff used his first public address in Buenos Aires to defend social protections, education and democratic restraint while acknowledging the role of private enterprise

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – International News Service — Pope Leo XIV challenged the social consequences of President Javier Milei’s austerity program Sunday, telling Argentina’s political leaders that economic growth must also reach disadvantaged people.

Speaking before government officials, diplomats and civil-society representatives in Buenos Aires, Leo encouraged private initiative and job creation but placed those goals within a broader duty to support struggling families, unemployed workers and older people.

The address amounted to a measured contrast with Milei’s libertarian program. His government has sharply reduced public spending to control inflation and restore fiscal stability. The measures have helped produce a budget surplus and lower annual inflation, but they have also led to protests over pensions, disability assistance and university funding.

Official figures released by Argentina’s INDEC statistics agency show that 32.3 per cent of people in the urban areas surveyed lived below the poverty line during the first half of 2026.

Leo called for stronger education, vocational training, universities and research. He also said people affected by illness, disability and dependency require particular protection.

The pope balanced his criticism by recognizing the value of entrepreneurship and economic opportunity. His argument was not against growth or private investment, but that their benefits should extend beyond those already secure.

Leo also warned against political language that deepens division. He said democracy depends on listening, careful speech, respect for institutions and a willingness to treat opponents as fellow citizens.

That message carried particular weight in Argentina, where Milei routinely uses combative language against journalists and political critics. Catholic bishops have become prominent opponents of several government policies, although Milei welcomed Leo and adopted a conciliatory tone during the visit.

The trip is the first papal visit to Argentina in nearly four decades. It also carries the legacy of Pope Francis, an Argentine whose emphasis on poverty and social justice frequently put him at odds with Milei.