Argentina’s Economic Woes Take Backseat to Security Concerns Amid Rising Crime Rates

Security Takes Center Stage Ahead of Elections

In a surprising turn of events, security has become the dominant topic of conversation in Argentina ahead of the country’s elections. Rising crime rates and high-profile killings have overshadowed economic woes, making it clear that security concerns are becoming increasingly pressing for everyday Argentines.

Rising Crime Rates: A Growing Concern

A recent survey by the University of Buenos Aires found that 80% of respondents felt that the security situation had worsened over the past six months. Among supporters of the opposition, concerns about security were raised with almost the same frequency as concerns about inflation.

The Opposition’s Emphasis on Security

The opposition’s emphasis on security is seen as a move to draw attention away from their less popular economic adjustment measures. Patricia Bullrich, president of the PRO party and a potential presidential contender, has declared her intent to run for the presidency on a hardline platform that includes using the military to help address the situation in Rosario.

The Government’s Response

President Alberto Fernández has announced plans to send 1,400 federal agents to Rosario, with the armed forces set to help with logistical measures. The move is seen as an attempt by the government to take some of the wind out of Bullrich’s sails at the price of lending credibility to her plans.

Security Concerns Across the Region

Security concerns are not limited to Argentina and are a growing issue across the region. In Ecuador, President Guillermo Lasso’s approval has sunk as organized crime and violence have grown in recent years. In Chile, polling shows that crime is voters’ top concern, amid a growing perception of insecurity in the capital and north.

Everyday Argentines Speak Out

For everyday Argentines, security concerns are becoming increasingly pressing. A woman working at a corner store in Munro, a lower-middle-class area just north of Buenos Aires, called the security situation in her neighborhood a “disaster” and said her brother’s house had been ransacked by thieves despite being located just a few meters from a police station.

Conclusion

As the election draws near, it remains to be seen how security concerns will play out in Argentina. However, one thing is clear: security has become a top issue for many Argentines, and politicians are scrambling to address their growing concerns.