Freedom’s Beacon: CPAC Paraguay 2025 Champions South American Conservatism

CPAC Paraguay 2025, held on September 15 and 16 in Asunción, marked a historic moment for global conservatism, uniting over 600 attendees in a display of solidarity. Paraguay, a rising beacon of conservative values in South America, hosted this landmark event, fostering connections among leaders like Paraguayan President Santiago Peña and Argentine President Javier Milei, alongside international figures such as Spanish Vox leader Santiago Abascal and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy Ric Grenell, a CPAC board member. The conference showcased the growing influence of conservative principles in the region, celebrating Paraguay’s free-market successes and rallying attendees to safeguard liberty against the tide of communist ideologies.

The conference opened with a powerful address from CPAC Chairman Matt Schlapp, who called for conservatives to unite in the wake of the tragic assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. Honoring Kirk’s legacy, Schlapp declared, “CPAC Paraguay is held in his honor,” emphasizing the shared commitment of conservatives from South America and beyond to defend free speech and resist encroaching communism. He highlighted the hope inspired by ordinary Paraguayans and South Americans standing firm against attacks on national sovereignty and family values, challenging media elites who undermine these principles. Reflecting on his recent meeting with President Peña, Schlapp noted the similar struggles and shared conservative values between Paraguay and the United States, demonstrating how conservatism is on the rise around the world.

Javier Milei gave a keynote address, holding up Paraguay’s economic model—marked by low taxes and minimal regulations—as a blueprint for prosperity. He contrasted this with Argentina’s past economic missteps, detailing his administration’s reforms that slashed inflation from 1.5% daily to 1.5% monthly and lifted 12 million Argentines out of poverty. Milei said, “I’m delighted that CPAC, the most important conservative summit on the planet, has come to Paraguay, and I hope it will soon be present throughout South America, fighting the cultural battle across the continent.” His call to action underscored CPAC Paraguay’s role in galvanizing conservatives to champion free markets, individual liberty, and a greater emphasis on moral governance across the region.

The presence of influential figures like Abascal and Grenell amplified the event’s global reach, with discussions spanning economic growth, technological innovation, and security. Panels emphasized Paraguay’s role in integrating conservative ideas into a broader international network, as noted by Paraguayan Ambassador to the U.S. Gustavo Leite, who described the summit as a platform to share Paraguay’s vision while learning from conservative global leaders.

CPAC Paraguay 2025 was a rallying point for conservatives worldwide, cementing South America’s role in the global fight for freedom. By bringing together conservative leaders, the conference highlighted the power of shared values in overcoming adversity, from economic crises to cultural erosion. As Paraguay stands as a model of free-market success, CPAC Paraguay has ignited a movement to expand conservative ideals across the continent.