President Javier Milei generated controversy by equating homosexuality with pedophilia during his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. This statement triggered a wave of rejection from both public opinion and various opposition leaders, who called for and celebrated the Federal Antifascist and Antiracist March on February 1, which was media-referred to as the march against Milei.
"They are pedophiles, therefore, I want to know who endorses such behaviors," Milei expressed in his intervention. These words provoked a 9% drop in the president's digital image, according to a study by the consulting firm Ad Hoc. Despite starting the year with a 61% positivity rate on social media, by the end of January, his percentage decreased to 52% due to the controversy arising from his statements.
The discussion on the international agenda, promoted by the president, generated both support and criticism, with the latter being stronger in national communities. In this sense, Milei's words have allowed the opposition to find a unifying issue against the National Government. According to the consulting firm's report, the sentiment of rejection towards the president's comments has strengthened the critical stance of opposition sectors.
Official communities at the national level, backed by the coverage of the president's international agenda, have served as a cushion to mitigate criticisms from the opposition. It is clear that Milei's statements have had a significant impact on the political and social landscape of the country, generating an intense debate around values and tolerance.
