But the main difficulties for Argentina's economy are the institutional rigidities that reform efforts have left untouched because they are so politically charged. The political agenda is more daunting. Argentina has made some significant democratic advances, including last weekend's election. Another sign is the exclusion of the armed forces from politics. Yet Argentines increasingly distrust politics and politicians.
Polls report that fewer than one-fifth of the citizens trust their police or judges.
More than three-quarters have little or no confidence in the president, Congress, or political parties. Nearly everyone believes corruption is endemic. The courts and tax system are national scandals. Menem's dogged efforts to run for a third term despite a clear constitutional prohibition did not help to build respect for the rule of law or the presidency. In the past 16 years, Argentina's progress has been impressive by any standards.