Milei Administration Faces Outcry Over Offensive Terminology for…

President Javier Milei’s government faced backlash for using derogatory terms like “idiot” and “mentally deficient” in a resolution regarding disability allowances. Human rights organizations condemned the outdated language, leading to a commitment from the government to modify the terminology. The controversy highlights ongoing societal issues surrounding disability language and the need for inclusive practices.

Recently, President Javier Milei’s administration sparked controversy by using outdated and derogatory terms to describe disabled individuals in a governmental resolution. Issued by The Agencia Nacional de Discapacidad (ANDIS) on January 16, the resolution included terms such as “idiot,” “imbecile,” and “mentally deficient,” which were used in the evaluation of individuals applying for disability allowances. This language was met with widespread condemnation as archaic and discriminatory, contradicting the principles set forth by international human rights conventions to which Argentina is committed.

Seven prominent human rights organizations, including ACIJ (Asociación Civil por la Igualdad) and CELS (Centro de Estudios Legales y Sociales), demanded the immediate repeal of the resolution, alleging it infringes upon the rights of disabled individuals as enshrined in Argentina’s Law 27,044. In response to the public outcry, the Milei government agreed to amend the offensive terminology, acknowledging it as outdated and committing to align the language with contemporary medical and regulatory standards while emphasizing that the criteria for evaluation would remain unchanged.

Following the backlash, ANDIS dismissed Miriam Améndola, the medical oversight coordinator involved in the resolution’s drafting, and hinted at prior responsibility of Tatiana Alvarado, her predecessor. Diego Spagnuolo, ANDIS’s chief who signed the resolution, acknowledged the error publicly, stating he understood its severity and had taken action against those responsible. Nevertheless, critics noted that Spagnuolo himself bore responsibility for the controversial resolution, leading to further scrutiny of the administration.

The contentious terms were detailed in Part of Resolution 187/2025, aimed at establishing medical criteria for disability evaluations necessary for pensions since last September. The language utilized, including classifications of “idiots” and “mental retards,” was strikingly reminiscent of a decree from 1998 under the administration of former President Carlos Menem, from whom Milei seeks inspiration. Observers have criticized this choice of terminology as reflective of Milei’s broader rhetoric, which often includes dismissive labels for his opponents.

Lawyer Agostina Quiroz of ACIJ remarked that such expressions perpetuate historic prejudices that intensify discrimination against disabled individuals and stressed that the state should not endorse such language. She emphasized the need to explore the social model of disability over the outdated medical model, which frames disability as a defect rather than a consequence of societal barriers. The ACIJ proclaimed that all disabled individuals possess the potential to work, provided they are afforded the necessary support and resources.

Quiroz concluded by highlighting the detrimental impact of continued use of derogatory terms on disabled individuals and their families, arguing that it strengthens stereotypes and barriers that impede equal participation in society. The situation highlights a critical need for governmental language to reflect an inclusive and equitable approach towards disability.

The recent controversy over the Milei administration’s language regarding disabled individuals underscores the importance of respectful and current terminology in governmental discourse. The backlash prompted necessary amendments to the offensive resolution, reflecting a broader societal demand for inclusivity. It is imperative for the government to ensure that its language and policies align with contemporary understanding of disability as a social concern, fostering an environment where all individuals can participate fully in society.

Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar