Dismantling rentier logic: Tenants struggles in Argentina

Abstract

In the conversation "Dismantling Rentier Logic: Tenants Struggles in Argentina," Ana Vilenica and Moisés Quiroz engage with Garvazio Munoz from Inquilinos Agrupados (IA), delving into Argentina's housing crisis and its effects on renters. Garvazio Munoz provides a historical perspective on tenant organising in Argentina, starting with Juana Rouco Buela's leadership in the 1907 tenants' strike against steep rent increases and the Movimiento de Inquilinos Peronistas of 1973. The conversation pivots to contemporary challenges, with Munoz describing the harsh reality of Argentina's housing market – a sector plagued by dollarization, deregulation, and speculative practices that exacerbate accessibility issues for ordinary Argentinians. Munoz critiques the cultural norm of homeownership, pointing to the growing necessity and practicality of renting in today's economic landscape. The dialogue delves into the government's recent shock measures, with Munoz expressing concerns about a looming social crisis. Munoz also highlights the practical operations of Inquilinos Agrupados, emphasizing their grassroots approach and significant political and media presence.