In response to the termination of labor contracts and cuts made by the government in the National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), members of the National Agency for the Promotion of Research, Technological Development, and Innovation are condemning these actions. They emphasize that everyone is needed in Argentina’s scientific sectors and that strong infrastructure for science is crucial to prevent helplessness and vulnerability.
Renowned researchers from various nations have also expressed concerns about the impact of government measures on Argentina’s scientific sectors. In a letter addressed to the president, they warned that the country’s scientific sectors are approaching a dangerous precipice, which could have negative effects on both the country and the world.
The letter states that reducing budgets for CONICET and national universities reflects a dramatic devaluation of citizens and the future of Argentina. The authors stress that economic and social progress is directly linked to public investment in science and technology. They urge the government to restore constrained budgets, warning that freezing research programs and reducing student numbers will destroy a system that took years to build.
Furthermore, over 50,000 national public administration workers have been laid off during this time, with another 70,000 contracts not being renewed. This has created an additional challenge for Argentina’s scientific sectors as many scientists rely on these jobs for their livelihoods.
In conclusion, members of the National Agency for the Promotion of Research, Technological Development, and Innovation are urging the government to reconsider its actions towards its scientific sectors. They emphasize that investing in science is essential to ensure economic growth and development in Argentina.
