Argentina science sector faces historic funding cuts and hiring delays

Argentina's public science and technology system is facing a severe crisis characterized by historic budget cuts and administrative delays. Researchers report that the 2026 approved budget represents a 48.8% decrease compared to 2023, marking the lowest level of funding in the 21st century.

Beyond financial constraints, the sector is struggling with a loss of purchasing power, with university professors and researchers losing over 35% of their real wages. This has led to mass resignations and the cancellation of existing scientific projects. Specific impacts include a 50% budget reduction for the National Commission on Space Activities (CONAE) for 2026.

Additionally, over 1,000 scientists are in a state of professional limbo. Despite having passed competitive examinations to join the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (Conicet), approximately 600 individuals from late 2023 and 400 from 2024 have yet to have their appointments confirmed. These researchers have been waiting up to three years to occupy their positions, a situation described as a direct consequence of government policies aimed at weakening the scientific-technological system.