In a surprising move, President Javier Milei has appointed Úrsula Basset, a lawyer known for her opposition to gender policies and LGBTQ rights, as the head of Argentina’s human rights sector in the Foreign Ministry. This appointment, articulated by Resolution 71/2025 and published on March 14, signifies a pivotal moment in Milei’s ongoing effort against what he terms “wokeism.”
Basset, who holds a law degree from the University of Buenos Aires and a doctorate from the Catholic University of Argentina, boasts experience in family law and has taught at the postgraduate level. Her prominence grew from her isolationist stances within organizations such as the United Nations and the Organisation of American States, where she vehemently opposed state responsibilities in caring for vulnerable populations including children, women, and indigenous groups.
Government insiders, as reported by Noticias Argentinas, reveal that Basset has effectively been performing the duties of the human rights director for several months amidst a backdrop of resignations in the ministry. Significantly, her formal appointment marks a first, as she lacks prior experience in multilateral affairs and international human rights law, a realm traditionally led by seasoned diplomats or academics.
Basset’s rise within the government comes after serving as a consultant to former foreign minister Diana Mondino prior to her exit last year. Her ascent has been propelled by influential figures such as Presidential Chief-of-Staff Karina Milei and presidential advisor Santiago Caputo, distinguishing her appointment in a notably unprecedented manner.
Úrsula Basset has been appointed as Argentina’s new human rights director, a decision by President Javier Milei viewed as a challenge to gender policies and LGBTQ rights. Her lack of experience in international human rights law is unprecedented, marking a significant change in the Foreign Ministry’s leadership. Basset has previously held isolationist views at multilateral institutions, amplifying concerns regarding future human rights advocacy in the country.
In conclusion, Úrsula Basset’s appointment as the director of human rights in Argentina’s Foreign Ministry signals a dramatic shift in governmental philosophy regarding gender and LGBTQ rights, reflecting President Milei’s cultural campaign against modern social movements. With no prior experience in international law or diplomacy, her qualification raises questions about the direction of human rights advocacy in Argentina going forward. This controversial appointment amid continued resignations paints a complex picture of the nation’s evolving human rights landscape.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
