Argentina’s Science Funding Plummets, Threatening Research and Innovation
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- Argentina’s Science Funding Plummets, Threatening Research and Innovation
Buenos Aires - A recent scientific expedition showcasing Argentina’s potential for oceanographic discovery is sharply contrasted by a deepening crisis in national science funding. The “Talud Continental IV” mission, which live-streamed exploration of the Mar del Plata submarine canyon via the remotely operated vehicle SuBastian, captivated audiences, averaging 500,000 viewers per broadcast and accumulating over 17.5 million views in just three weeks.
A Cultural Phenomenon Amidst Austerity
The expedition,a collaboration between Argentina’s National Scientific and Technical Research Council (Conicet) and the Schmidt Ocean Institute,highlighted the capabilities of Argentine scientists on a global stage. However, this success story unfolds against a backdrop of severe budgetary constraints that are jeopardizing the future of scientific research within the country.
Dramatic Cuts to Science and Technology Budget
According to a July report from the EPC, a research group specializing in science and technology policy, Argentina’s investment in science and technology has fallen to a historic low of 0.156% of gross domestic product – the lowest level recorded as 2002 [[1]]. This represents a 48% decrease compared to 2023. Spending in the first half of 2025 was 19% lower than the same period in 2024, signifying a more than 40% reduction in funding over two years.
The current situation echoes the economic crisis of 2002, when Argentina defaulted on its debt and experienced widespread social unrest. While the science and technology budget stood at 0.30% of GDP when President Javier Milei assumed office, sweeping austerity measures implemented to bolster social programs have led to substantial cuts across the sector.
Did You Know? Argentina’s commitment to science funding historically played a crucial role in its regional leadership in areas like agricultural technology and space exploration.
Agencies Face steep Reductions
The Ministry of Science was restructured as a secretariat,and key research agencies experienced drastic budget reductions. Conicet’s funding was slashed by 41% compared to 2024, while the I+D+I Agency faced a 67% cut.Further reductions impacted the National Institute of Industrial Technology (46%), the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (39.6%), the National Commission on space activities (40%), and the National Genetic Data bank (50.4%).
These cuts represent an unprecedented reduction in government investment in science. In 2024, the state financed 59.5% of the country’s research and progress,with private companies contributing 20.7% and universities a mere 1.2%.
Funding Allocation Shifts
The government has prioritized sectors deemed critical for development, including agribusiness, energy, mining, the knowledge economy, innovation, and health. Programs related to climate change, environmental studies, and the social sciences have been comparatively sidelined.
Impact on Scientific Community
The consequences of these funding cuts are already apparent.Researchers report insufficient resources, equipment shortages, suspended contracts, wage reductions, and a growing exodus of Argentine scientists seeking opportunities abroad. An estimated 4,148 jobs have been lost within Argentina’s national Science, Technology and Innovation System, with Conicet accounting for approximately one-third of these losses, now employing only 11,868 researchers.
Pro Tip: The “brain drain” of skilled scientists can have long-term negative consequences for a nation’s innovation capacity and economic competitiveness.
Guillermo Durán, dean of the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires, argues that the situation extends beyond mere economics. There is a political decision to dismantle Argentina’s science and technology system and the high-quality public university system that has always set us apart as a country,
he stated. His faculty experienced a 13% reduction in teaching staff in 2024 due to budget cuts and salary reductions. These people decided to end a series of very good programs for Argentina. The damage thay are causing could take many years to recover from,
Durán warned.
Agustín Campero, president of the Alem Foundation and former secretary of Scientific and technological Articulation, echoed these concerns, stating, It is dire and will have severe consequences for Argentina’s development.
The 2021 Financing Law and Future Outlook
The Science System Financing Law, approved by Congress in 2021, outlined a plan for gradually increasing state investment in science and technology to reach 1% of GDP by 2032. The scientific community and universities are now advocating for the full implementation of this law. What steps can Argentina take to reverse these cuts and reinvest in its scientific future?
| Year | Science & Technology Budget (% of GDP) | change from Previous Year |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Lowest Recorded | – |
| 2023 | 0.48% | – |
| 2024 | 0.30% | -37.5% |
| 2025 (H1) | 0.156% | -19% (vs.H1 2024) |
The current trajectory raises concerns about Argentina’s long-term scientific and economic competitiveness. Will the nation prioritize investment in research and development to secure its future, or will it continue down a path of austerity that threatens to erode its scientific capabilities?
Evergreen Context: Science Funding Trends in Latin America
Argentina’s situation is not unique within Latin america. Several countries in the region face challenges in consistently funding scientific research.Factors contributing to this include economic instability, political shifts, and competing priorities for government resources. Though, nations like Brazil and Chile have demonstrated a stronger commitment to science and technology investment, resulting in greater scientific output and innovation. The long-term economic benefits of sustained investment in research and development are well-documented, highlighting the importance of prioritizing science funding for sustainable growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Conicet? Conicet is Argentina’s National Scientific and Technical Research Council, the main national research organization.
- How do budget cuts affect scientific research? Budget cuts lead to reduced resources, fewer job opportunities, and a decline in the quality and quantity of research output.
- What is the Science System Financing Law? This law, approved in 2021, aims to gradually increase state investment in science and technology to 1% of GDP by 2032.
- What is the “brain drain”? This refers to the emigration of highly skilled scientists and researchers to other countries with better opportunities.
- Why is science funding critically important for Argentina’s development? Investment in science and technology is crucial for innovation, economic growth, and addressing national challenges.
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