Summary

A new political cycle characterized the 2010-2011 period in Argentina. The death of former president Néstor Kirchner was followed by the consolidation of Cristina Kirchner as a leader in her own right, leading to an overwhelming electoral victory in late 2011. Some changes, which occurred at the institutional level, have the potential to transform the political landscape in the long term. This paper reviews the political, economic and social development of Argentina during these two years in light of the trends observed in previous years and longer-term determinants. It reviews the main institutional and policy changes of these years, and highlights the legislative process, public opinion trends, and electoral results.