In a significant move, President Javier Milei’s administration has appointed Úrsula Basset, a lawyer known for her opposition to gender policies and LGBTQ rights, as the new director of human rights within Argentina’s Foreign Ministry. This decision, deemed a boost for Milei’s cultural agenda against ‘wokeism,’ was formalised under Resolution 71/2025 on March 14, as per the Official Gazette, bearing the signature of Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein.
Basset, an alumni of the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) and a doctoral graduate from the Catholic University of Argentina (UCA), has taught postgraduate courses focusing on comparative, family, and inheritance law. Esteemed for her expertise in family law, she gained notoriety for advocating the government’s isolationist stances at international forums including the United Nations and Organisation of American States, where she opposed state involvement in matters regarding children, women, and indigenous populations.
Sources from the government reveal that Basset had been functioning as the human rights director for several months prior to her official appointment amidst changes in the department. Her designation is particularly notable as she is the first individual without a background in multilateralism or international human rights law to lead this crucial area of the Foreign Ministry.
Traditionally, this position has been held by experienced diplomats and academics, such as Leandro Despouy, Horacio Basabe, Horacio Ravenna, and Mónica Pinto. Before her tenure, Basset served as a consultant and advisor, particularly to former foreign minister Diana Mondino, prior to her exit last year. Reports suggest that her elevation was endorsed by Presidential Chief-of-Staff Karina Milei and advisor Santiago Caputo.
Úrsula Basset, a lawyer opposing gender policies, has been appointed as Argentina’s new human rights director by President Javier Milei, aiming to advance his cultural agenda against ‘wokeism’. Her appointment is notable as it represents a departure from traditional diplomacy, and could reshape the nation’s human rights landscape.
The appointment of Úrsula Basset as the new human rights director in Argentina marks a controversial shift in leadership characterised by her opposition to established gender and LGBTQ policies. This historic decision reflects President Javier Milei’s intent to redirect human rights discourse in the country, diverging significantly from previous administrations led by experienced diplomats. Basset’s leadership could have far-reaching implications for human rights practices in Argentina going forward.
Original Source: batimes.com.ar
