Argentina’s scientific research landscape is facing serious challenges. Investment in science and technology dropped by 32.9% last year, marking the most significant cut since funding was first tracked in 1972. This decline has left many provinces reeling, with some experiencing budget reductions of up to 70%. For example, La Rioja, Santa Cruz, and Formosa saw cuts of over 68%, seriously impacting their research initiatives.
CONICET, Argentina’s national scientific research council, is often seen as the face of the country’s scientific efforts. However, it is just a part of a more extensive system that includes national universities and various institutes like CNEA (atomic energy), INTA (agricultural technology), INTI (industrial technology), and CONAE (space activities).
Since taking office, President Javier Milei’s administration has not only reduced funding but also failed to spend the limited budget that is available—only about 7% of allocated funds were utilized. Last year, the funding for CONICET fell by 20.8%, for INTA by 23.6%, and for CNEA by 28.8%. National universities faced an astonishing 72.6% funding drop. Overall, science and technology now make up a mere 0.208% of Argentina’s Gross Domestic Product, down from 0.302% in 2023.
Roberto Salvarezza, former Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation, highlighted a troubling trend: Argentina has just three researchers for every 1,000 workers, compared to developed countries where the average is about 12.9. With salaries decreasing by around 30%, many Argentine scientists are seeking better opportunities overseas.
Salvarezza expressed concern about the direction the government is heading, comparing it to past policies that treated Argentina as a mere exporter of raw materials. He worries that this stance undermines the nation’s potential to add value to its resources through scientific innovation.
On January 9, a new resolution gave the National Innovation, Science, and Technology Secretary, Darío Genua, added authority. He can now demand the return of unspent funds from previous scientific programs and has the power to close programs or rescind agreements that don’t align with the government’s 2024-25 strategy, which has not yet been fully outlined.
This new plan appears to contradict existing laws that require systematic science and technology funding increases. The established National Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation 2030 outlines crucial priorities, yet the government’s new draft lacks detail and clarity on its objectives.
According to Jorge Aliaga, a former dean at the University of Buenos Aires, the recent changes threaten impactful scientific initiatives aimed at cultivating younger talent in the field, like the Construir Ciencia and Equipar Ciencia programs.
Concerns are growing internationally, too. A letter signed by 68 Nobel Prize winners urged the protection of Argentine science, and respected journals have echoed growing worries about the government’s approach. The financial decline of the science sector, coupled with hostile rhetoric from officials, has alarmed the global scientific community.
Beyond funding cuts, the administration is leaning towards privatizing public technology-related companies, starting with the IMPSA metallurgical firm. This shift raises alarms about the future of public investment in science and technology. As noted by Salvarezza, this could dismantle systems capable of delivering complex technologies essential for Argentina’s development.
In summary, the state of Argentinian science is critical. The government’s focus on privatization and funding cuts jeopardizes the nation’s innovation capacity and its ability to compete globally in scientific fields.
