Milei Defends Economic Record at AS/COA, Links Falling Birth Rate to Feminist Movement

Addressing business leaders and officials at an Americas Society/Council of the Americas conference, Milei defended his administration's record, saying 'my mandate is to bring down inflation and grow the economy, and I will fulfil it.' In separate remarks the same day, Milei attributed Argentina's declining birth rate to what he called 'the madness of green handkerchiefs' — a reference to the feminist movement and 2020 legalization of abortion — arguing the trend threatens long-term economic growth and the pension system's sustainability. The comments drew criticism from women's rights groups and added to a week of government messaging aimed at reassuring investors and its base amid falling approval ratings.