Papal tour highlights poverty and disability issues in Argentina

On Nov 9, Pope Leo XIV arrived in Buenos Aires for the second leg of his 12‑day South American pilgrimage. In a conversation with President Javier Milei, the Pope stressed that an economy’s purpose is to serve the populace, not to compel citizens to serve the economy. He called for the benefits of growth to be shared across all groups, emphasizing the plight of the poor, pension beneficiaries and people living with disabilities.

Leo XIV expressed particular worry about cuts to state support for the disabled, urging the Argentine government to show greater empathy toward those affected by illness, dependence or impairment. He also appealed for a democratic spirit that welcomes dissent and employs careful language in public life.

The meeting came as Milei defended his policy of aggressive fiscal consolidation, arguing that safeguarding life, freedom and property is enshrined in the national constitution. Since assuming office in December 2023, his administration has slashed spending to fight runaway inflation, a strategy that has reverberated through public services, retirement benefits and welfare initiatives. Government data cited a 32.3 % poverty rate in September, reflecting deepening inequality.

The Pope’s itinerary includes a stop in Uruguay before heading to Peru, with scheduled visits to a disability care centre, a prison and open‑air prayer gatherings projected to draw about seven million worshippers across the nation.