Politics of Argentina

Presidential Democracy

The medical tourism hub of Argentina has, what is called, a federal presidential democracy. In other words, it’s a presidential republic in which the head of state is elected once in four years. During many periods in its history however, the country had fallen victim to coups. The economical instability and turmoil after the Peron era led to many years of military rule. A President can only be reelected once.

As head of state, the President of Argentina has wide ranging powers. He is responsible for the appointments of the Cabinet and a Chief of Cabinet. The chief of cabinet can be removed by both houses of parliament by passing a majority vote.

The Parliament

The Argentinean Parliament consists of two houses – the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. The Chamber of Deputies consists of 257 members, and the Senate consists of 72 members. The members of the Chamber for Deputies are elevated for a period of four years. At least half of the 257 members are elected every two years. The senators are elected by the provinces and each province can select two senators – one from the majority party, and one from the minority party. These senators serve 6 year terms.

Political Parties

The two main political parties in Argentina are Partido Justicialista (also known as the Peronists) and the Radical Citizen’s Union.

The Judiciary

Members of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President who needs the approval of the Senate before confirmation.

The country’s current President is Cristina Elizabet Fernandez de Kirchner, wife of former president Nester Kirchner. She is the second female president to govern Argentina, and the first female president to be elected directly after her husband’s term in office.

As a medical tourism destination, Argentina enjoys political stability, making it safe for a visit at all times during the year.

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