Argentina Bans Hereditary Positions in State Jobs

On October 1, 2023, during a conference held at the Government House, Minister of Deregulation Federico Sturzenegger announced the prohibition of hereditary positions within the Argentine State. This measure is part of a broader effort from Javier Milei's administration to dismantle outdated privileges and endorse a merit-based system in public employment. The decree, signed and active, follows a project introduced by Congressman Alejandro Bon Giovanni and was supported by presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni. It stipulates that relatives or spouses of deceased employees cannot hold positions in public administration. This rule impacts state bodies such as the Central Bank and ANSES, which previously accepted illegitimate uses of inherited positions. Sturzenegger emphasized that such privileges are unacceptable in a democratic and constitutional system, likening them to medieval practices and highlighting their detrimental impact on equality of opportunity in the country. The policy aims to eliminate a caste structure within public offices and strive towards higher meritocracy, where job access is based on merit rather than family connections. Although the change is anticipated to be significant, state institutions are expected to begin adjusting their statutes in the coming weeks. The goal of this reform is to foster a paradigm shift in the organization of the State and ensure equal conditions for all Argentinians.