The country is a characterised by extraordinary cultural and social diversity. The Argentine population is predominantly of European origin, with approximately 85-90% of the inhabitants descending from immigrants, mainly Italians and Spaniards, who arrived between the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century.

This makes Argentina one of the countries in Latin America with the largest European presence. Mestizo populations, of mixed European and indigenous origin, are less numerous than in other countries in the region, but are mainly present in the north of the country.
Indigenous communities represent approximately 2-3% of the population and include groups such as the Mapuche, Qom and Guaraní. There are also Afro-Argentine minorities, which, though now very small, are historically significant. Finally, Argentina is home to small but important communities of Arab, Jewish and Asian origin, who arrived during the 20th century. The ethnic composition of the country reflects a complex history of migration, assimilation and the rediscovery
of original identities.

The Metropolitan Catholic Cathedral of Buenos Aires. 75.5% of Argentinians profess to be Catholic. 123rf

From a religious perspective, according to the most recent estimates, the Argentine population is made up of approximately 75.5% Catholics, 8% are people who do not identify with any religion, 15.3% are Protestants (of which 7.9% are Pentecostals), 1.2% are Jehovah’s Witnesses, 0.9% Mormons and 1.2% are people who follow other religions.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the percentage of Protestants in Argentina. According to a statistical survey carried out by CONICET in 2019, Protestants represent 15.3% of the population, with a prevalence among young people and people with a low level of education. This phenomenon is partly attributable to the spread of Pentecostal evangelical churches, which have found fertile ground among the most disadvantaged social classes, offering a message of hope and prosperity in a context of economic and social difficulties.
In recent decades, the growth of evangelical and Pentecostal churches in Argentina has also taken on a significant geopolitical dimension. This phenomenon is not only the result of internal social dynamics, but also reflects the cultural and political influence of the United States in Latin America. Evangelical communities often receive organisational and financial support from important US religious institutions, such as the Southern Baptist Convention and the International Mission Board, as well as from international Pentecostal networks such as the Assemblies of God. These entities promote missionary, social and political activities, conveying conservative values and strengthening strategic ties in the region. In addition, philanthropic organisations linked to conservative Christian movements in the US, such as the Family Research Council, provide funding support to many local evangelical communities.

People in an urban street in Buenos Aires. Argentine society comprises a wide spectrum of social classes, including a significant urban middle class. 123rf

This expansion has also influenced the internal political debate in Argentina, favouring the emergence of social and political groups with positions more aligned with certain US orientations, especially on ethical issues such as the role of the family, abortion and civil rights. This evolution reflects a change in the beliefs and values of Argentine society, influenced by factors such as globalization, access to diverse information, and public debate on ethical and moral issues. Despite this, Catholicism maintains a significant presence in daily life, traditions, and national holidays. In addition, growing religious plurality has led to an enrichment of the country’s spiritual landscape, with the emergence of new forms of religious and spiritual expression.
Argentine society is composed of a wide spectrum of social classes, with a significant presence of urban middle classes, but also of popular sectors that face conditions of vulnerability and marginalisation. Socio-economic disparities are accentuated by factors such as the recurrent economic crisis, high inflation and unemployment, which impact especially on the weakest segments of the population. These elements create a climate of social instability that is also reflected in political tensions and organized crime phenomena. It should also be noted that Argentine civil society is very active and involved in political debate, with social movements that emerge on issues such as human rights, indigenous populations’ claims, environmental issues and civil rights. These actors contribute to shaping the political agenda, but at the same time, they find themselves faced with challenges related to the management of power and the resistance of traditional institutions.

The city of Rosario, is considered epicentre of drug trafficking activities. 123rf

The issue of the fight against drug trafficking represents one of the most critical and complex fronts for the Argentine political system. The Santa Fe region, and in particular the city of Rosario, are considered epicentres of drug trafficking activities, with serious consequences in terms of security, justice and local governance. Its strategic location, combined with the presence of logistical infrastructures such as the river port, has made Rosario a crucial hub for drug cartels, both national and international. This phenomenon has had serious repercussions on security, with an increase in homicide rates and clashes between rival gangs. Argentine institutions have implemented various plans and strategies to combat this phenomenon, but the presence of deeply rooted criminal organisations and the link with international drug trafficking networks make the work extremely difficult.
Furthermore, corruption and the lack of adequate resources contribute to creating a situation of vulnerability that undermines citizens’ trust in the authorities. The challenge of crime is intertwined with internal political issues, thus generating a context of serious instability that affects the country’s prospects for growth and democratic strengthening.  (Open Photo: Mate is a traditional Argentine caffeine-rich infused herbal drink. PIxabay)
(F.R.)

Argentina presents itself as a country with much potential, but held back by structural weaknesses that have limited its development
for decades.

The economy is formally diversified, and agriculture, industry and services contribute significantly to the GDP. However, the agri-food sector is the main driver of exports, with soy, corn and wheat constituting the backbone of Argentina’s foreign trade, guaranteeing crucial revenues in hard currency. Yet, behind these numbers lies a more complex reality. Fluctuating economic policies, rampant inflation and currency instability discourage investments and fuel a climate of uncertainty. Entrepreneurs struggle to plan, while foreign capital remains cautious. In this context, ambitious projects such as the Antarctic Logistics Hub are taking shape, an infrastructure that looks to the future and aims to strengthen Argentina’s geopolitical role on the white continent. The Pole, in addition to supporting scientific research, could become a strategic hub for logistics and access to the natural resources of the Antarctic, in an area that is increasingly contested at
an international level.

Ushuaiais is the capital of Tierra del Fuego. To strengthen Argentina’s geopolitical role on the white continent. 123rf

Another economic frontier is the maritime one. Fishing, in particular that of squid (the famous illex argentinus), is a growing item. But the massive presence of foreign fleets, especially Chinese, in the waters of the South Atlantic has turned the spotlight on sensitive issues such as territorial sovereignty, environmental sustainability and the control of resources. The Argentine government finds itself having to defend its economic interests while at the same time guaranteeing the protection of marine ecosystems and food security for coastal communities.
Meanwhile, the industrial sector, once the pride of the country, is experiencing a phase of stagnation. Car production, chemicals and agro-industry are still operating, but they have to deal with high costs, heavy bureaucracy and difficulty accessing credit. Inflation, which has exceeded 100% annually in recent years, continues to undermine purchasing power and fuels social discontent.
The new government, which took office with the promise of liberalising the economy and reducing the burden of the State, has launched an agenda of shock reforms: cuts in public spending, reductions in subsidies and opening up to international capital. The goal is to restore confidence in the markets and boost competitiveness, but the measures have already caused social tensions and street protests with the risk of a new wave of polarisation, in a country where inequalities are growing and poverty affects over 40% of the population.

Vaca Muerta is one of the world’s largest reserves of unconventional gas and oil. 123rf

However, Argentina is not without cards to play. One of the most important is called Vaca Muerta, one of the world’s largest reserves of unconventional gas and oil. The exploitation of this area could represent a turning point for the economy, with positive effects on employment, exports and the trade balance. But the potential remains partly untapped, blocked, as it is, by infrastructural obstacles, regulatory instability and difficulties in accessing capital.
Then there is the issue of energy transition. Argentina signed the Paris Agreement and committed to reducing emissions, but it remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels. Balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability will be one of the most delicate challenges of the coming years.On the international level, Buenos Aires continues to look with interest at Mercosur, especially Brazil, the country’s first trading partner. But relations with China are growing most rapidly since Beijing is now a key player, both for the purchase of Argentine raw materials and for investments in infrastructure and strategic sectors. In particular, Chinese investments in infrastructure in Argentina represent a crucial component of bilateral cooperation, especially in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). These investments range from transportation to energy, with significant projects such as the upgrade of the Belgrano Cargas and San Martín railway lines, financed by Chinese loans totalling approximately $4.7 billion. The Belgrano Cargas and San Martín Cargas railway lines are strategic for Argentina because they connect the agricultural and mining regions of the interior with the ports, reducing logistics costs and encouraging exports. They are also essential for the economic development of the less industrialised provinces. China has invested in these projects to ensure stable access to raw materials such as soy and lithium. Furthermore, Chinese financing involves the use of Chinese companies and technologies, ensuring a direct economic return. It is a cooperation of mutual interest, but with geopolitical implications.

Solar panels installed in Cauchari. The largest solar park in Latin America. CC BY-SA 4.0/Manuel arequipa

In the energy sector, the construction of the Cauchari solar park, the largest in Latin America, and the Jorge Cepernic and Néstor Kirchner dams stand out, with an investment of almost 4.8 billion dollars by a consortium led by the Chinese group Gezhouba
Ultimately, Argentina is at a crossroads. On the one hand, cyclical crises and distrust towards institutions continue to weigh down the economy. On the other hand, natural resources, its strategic position and human potential could mark a new phase of recovery, if accompanied by coherent policies, targeted investments and a more stable political climate.The real challenge today is that of transforming potential into reality. And to do so in a global context in which opportunities are not lacking, but require vision, credibility and the ability to mediate. Three elements that, in the recent history of the country, have often been lacking. (Open Photo: Buildings in the financial district in Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires. 123rf)

Filippo Romeo

Argentina is a federal republic with a presidential system where the President of the Nation exercises executive power and is simultaneously head of state and government.

The legislative power is bicameral, with a Senate and a Chamber of Deputies, while the judiciary is formally independent, although in recent decades it has often shown signs of structural weakness and permeability to political pressure.
At the territorial level, the country is divided into 23 autonomous provinces plus the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, which serves as the federal capital. This organisation gives the provinces a certain political and administrative autonomy, but also contributes to the fragmentation of power, which sometimes makes national coordination difficult, especially in times of crisis.

Political campaign in the city centre of Salta. The Argentine political landscape is historically polarised, with alternating cycles between reformist and populist projects. 123rf

The Argentine political landscape is historically polarised, with alternating cycles between reformist and populist projects, often embodied by the Peronist movement, and governments more oriented towards economic liberalism. This internal opposition has never been completely autonomous from the global geopolitical context. In particular, during the Cold War and in the following decades, the United States exerted a direct and indirect influence on the Argentine political system, traditionally supporting the forces closest to economic models open to the free market and pro-Western policies. The opposition between more sovereigntist or anti-imperialist governments – often wary of Washington – and pro-American administrations was reflected in economic policy choices, international alignments and even in the management of internal security.

Néstor Kirchner and his wife, Cristina Kirchner, just after her presidency began, 10 December 2007. Photo: Presidencia de la Nación Argentina

Even in recent years, ideological preferences with respect to the United States have continued to represent a factor of division. Even if the Kirchnerist governments – the Peronist current headed by Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, wife of the Néstor Kirchner  – have often maintained a critical position towards the International Monetary Fund and the role of the United States in Latin America, the Macri administration, first of all, and then that of Javier Milei, marked a return to an openly Atlanticist and pro-Washington vision.
In recent decades, Kirchnerism has dominated the national political scene, with a model characterised by strong state intervention. After the parenthesis of the government of Mauricio Macri (2015-2019), marked by a more liberal and pro-Western orientation, Argentina returned to a Peronist leadership with the presidency of Alberto Fernández, although characterised by an unstable balance between the president and the powerful Vice-President Cristina Fernández.
The 2023 elections represented a radical turning point with the rise of Javier Milei, a libertarian outsider who catalysed popular discontent towards the traditional system, leveraging an anti-statist, anti-system and strongly liberal message. Milei inherited a country deeply marked by an economic crisis, distrust in institutions and strong political fragmentation. His first moves in domestic politics focused on the drastic reduction of public spending, the deregulation of the market and the promotion of institutional reforms aimed at streamlining the State.

President of Argentina, Javier Milei. He inherited a country deeply marked by an economic crisis, distrust in institutions and strong political fragmentation. CC BY-SA 3.0/Gage Skidmore

However, his proposals have encountered numerous obstacles both in Parliament, where he does not have a solid majority, and on the streets, where unions, social movements and parts of civil society have expressed strong opposition. Even in foreign policy, the change of direction has been clear. Argentina has, in fact, adopted an orientation closer to the United States and Israel, reducing the enthusiasm of previous administrations for relations with China and Russia, while maintaining a pragmatic line in practice.
In this scenario, one of the most controversial issues is that of illegal fishing in Argentine waters, particularly in the exclusive economic zone of the South Atlantic. Squid fishing – a species of high commercial value and a key resource for the food industry – is the subject of massive exploitation by foreign fleets, with China at the forefront. Every year, hundreds of fishing boats, many of which fly the Chinese flag, operate near Argentine territorial waters, often illegally penetrating the exclusive economic zone, taking advantage of the country’s poor naval surveillance capacity. The ships use sophisticated technology, operate mostly at night and in remote areas, making any intervention by the Naval Prefecture or the Argentine Navy difficult.
The phenomenon has reached such proportions that it is not only an environmental and economic issue, but also a problem of national security and territorial sovereignty.
China, the main protagonist of this activity, has progressively expanded its presence in the South Atlantic, while strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with Argentina through infrastructure investments, financing and energy partnerships. This double dimension – economic cooperation and indiscriminate exploitation of marine resources – puts Buenos Aires in an ambiguous position: on the one hand, it needs Chinese financial support in a context of strong economic vulnerability; on the other, it suffers the environmental and employment consequences of illegal fishing, which severely affects local coastal communities and damages the national fish stock.

Typical orange fishing boats in the port of Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires province. To protect maritime territory and natural resources. 123rf

Over the past few years, several governments have announced plans to strengthen control of the waters and punish violations. However, the tools available to Argentina remain limited. The Navy has few resources, often obsolete, and international regulations make it difficult to intervene decisively without triggering diplomatic friction. Some seizures and pursuits of Chinese ships, even culminating in episodes of sinking, have caused a media outcry, but have not been enough to discourage the phenomenon. Furthermore, the lack of coordination between the bodies responsible for control and the chronic scarcity of public resources undermine the effectiveness of maritime policies.
At the political level, Chinese illegal fishing represents an emblematic node of the broader tension between the defence of sovereignty and economic dependence on global actors. The internal debate reflects this ambivalence. Thus, while some forces, especially nationalist or environmentalist ones, call for the strengthening of maritime control and the revision of bilateral agreements, others, more pragmatically, push for a diplomatic management of the issue, avoiding direct confrontation with a strategic commercial partner such as Beijing. In any case, the issue remains open and delicate, and is one of the most complex challenges that the Argentine government will have to face in the near future, especially if it wants to preserve the integrity of its maritime territory and its natural resources. (Open Photo:The National Congress. 123rf)
(F.R.)