From Plunder Neoliberalism to Conservative Dominance
By Andrea Casique
In Response to The Specter of Plunder Neoliberalism
Over the past decade, there has been a rise in right-wing politics and a resurgence of neoliberal policies worldwide. This trend appears to respond to the growing focus on gender intersectionality, identity politics, and environmentalism in recent political spheres, which has targeted traditional socioeconomic structures and cultural norms. This has prompted a push towards conservative ideologies and neoliberal economic strategies to regain control and stability in the face of rapidly changing societal values.
Verónica Gago describes "plunder neoliberalism" as a predatory form of capitalism that systematically dismantles social safety nets and public services. This push is not unique to Argentina or the region. Similar trends have been observed in Bolsonaro's Brazil and the United States under Trump. The Bolsonaro administration privatized parts of Petrobras, Eletrobras, and Banco do Brasil. Environmental deregulation under his government led to increased deforestation in the Amazon, prioritizing agribusiness and mining interests over indigenous rights and environmental conservation. The Trump administration focused on a nationalist and conservative cultural agenda and attacked the press and truth.
In the case of Milei's Argentina, the present rhetoric focuses on restoring stability and eliminating "social justice" rhetoric, which is blamed for some of Argentina's current troubles. Milei's government aims to privatize social services and undermine collective forms of resistance. As outlined by Gago, plunder neoliberalism seeks to maintain the status quo and prevent historically oppressed and silenced groups from hindering economic gain and the ruling class. Milei's proposals include privatizing health care, education, and pensions, arguing that private sector efficiency will improve service delivery and reduce costs. He also advocates for deregulating the labor market to make it easier for businesses to hire and fire employees, believing this will stimulate economic growth and reduce unemployment. Furthermore, he suggests significant cuts to public spending, particularly in social welfare programs, to reduce the fiscal deficit and attract foreign investment. Policies prioritizing profit over citizens' well-being can lead Argentina to a deeper divide and weaken democratic institutions.
Implementing plunder neoliberalism leads to increased inequality as public services are privatized and social safety nets are dismantled, widening the gap between the wealthy and the poor. This undermines public trust in government institutions and democratic processes.
Moreover, the reduction of social protections and the increase in inequality often lead to social unrest and protests as marginalized groups resist the loss of their rights and services. This shift towards exclusionary politics and ultra-right-wing tendencies is a step in the wrong direction. It also highlights the faults and missteps of inclusionary identity politics over the past 10 years, which have focused on blaming the "big guy" without providing solutions that do not target certain groups.
Plunder neoliberalism reflects broader global trends. Right-wing politics and neoliberal policies react to progressive social movements by dismantling public services and prioritizing private interests. This trend is just beginning and shows no signs of stopping. It is a call to take extra caution to safeguard civil rights.
Andrea Casique (G'25) is a graduate student in the Master of Latin American Studies program at Georgetown University.