Ana Lamas, the Environment Undersecretary of Argentina, has resigned, marking the 121st departure in President Milei’s administration. Her resignation comes amid forest fires and criticism over her management of public funds. The government is exploring withdrawing from the Paris climate accords, increasing tensions within the environmental portfolio. Fernando Jorge Brom is set to replace Lamas as challenges in stewardship of the climate crisis grow.
Argentina’s administration has witnessed its 121st official resignation as Environment Undersecretary Ana Lamas stepped down amid ongoing forest fires and scrutiny over her handling of public funds. Lamas, who resigned for personal reasons, confirmed there was no conflict with her colleagues. She served since the beginning of President Javier Milei’s term but faced challenges relating to the country’s climate policy.
President Milei is considering a controversial withdrawal from the Paris climate accords, which has heightened the urgency of addressing environmental concerns. The upcoming replacement for Lamas, Fernando Jorge Brom, is already part of the Cabinet team and is set to assume his new role following a meeting with Tourism, Environment & Sports Secretary Daniel Scioli. Meanwhile, Lamas has pledged to finalize pending administrative tasks before her resignation is officially accepted.
Lamas’ departure marks the third in just one week from the Milei administration, signaling potential instability within the environmental portfolio. She has been criticized for prioritizing other issues over addressing ongoing forest fires. Recently, the government has distanced itself from key international climate agreements, further complicating the situation.
During her tenure, Lamas was involved in controversial actions, such as withdrawing Argentina from the COP29 Conference on Climate Change, following direct orders from the Foreign Ministry. The Ministry has also separated itself from the UN’s Agenda 2030, with President Milei previously suggesting that he does not see climate change as solely caused by human activity. As leadership vacancies within the Environment Undersecretariat continue to mount, the agency may struggle to meet its obligations under international climate agreements.
This series of resignations raises questions about the government’s commitment to environmental issues at a time when Argentina is battling severe forest fires and environmental challenges. Sources indicate more high-level departures could follow, possibly amplifying a perceived leadership vacuum within the environmental sector, which is critical for fulfilling Argentina’s international commitments.
The resignation of Ana Lamas as Argentina’s Environment Undersecretary reflects the instability within President Javier Milei’s administration, compounded by ongoing environmental crises and scrutiny over budget management. As Milei contemplates withdrawing from the Paris climate accords, the new leadership will have to navigate significant challenges, including ongoing forest fires and the country’s international environmental commitments. With a potential exodus of additional officials from the department, the situation could pose further complications. Lamas’ tenure coincided with controversy surrounding Argentina’s climate policy, illustrating the complexities of balancing domestic priorities with international obligations. The government’s recent distancing from climate agreements signals a decisive shift in its environmental strategy amid increasing public and political scrutiny.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
