Daniela Mariel Vilar (born November 23, 1983) is an Argentine politician who served as the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of Argentina from September 2021 to December 2023. A member of the Justicialist Party and the La Cámpora political organization, she previously served as a National Deputy representing Buenos Aires Province from 2019 to 2021.
Early Life and Education
Vilar was born on November 23, 1983, in Lomas de Zamora, a
partido (department) in the southern part of Greater Buenos Aires. She earned a degree in Social Communication from the National University of Lomas de Zamora (UNLZ). She later pursued a Master's degree in Urban Management from the National University of San Martín (UNSAM). Her early political activism began during her university years.
Political Career
Vilar's political career began in local government in Lomas de Zamora, where she served as a local councilor (concejal).
National Deputy (2019–2021)
In the 2019 general election, Vilar was a candidate for National Deputy on the Frente de Todos list representing Buenos Aires Province. She was elected and took office on December 10, 2019. During her tenure in the Chamber of Deputies, Vilar focused on environmental issues, gender equality, and urban development, serving on several parliamentary commissions related to these topics.
Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development (2021–2023)
On September 15, 2021, President Alberto Fernández appointed Daniela Vilar as the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, replacing Juan Cabandié. She assumed office as part of a cabinet reshuffle. As minister, she oversaw national policies related to environmental protection, climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainable development, and waste management. Her term concluded on December 10, 2023, with the change of presidential administration following the election of Javier Milei, who subsequently restructured the ministry.
Post-Ministerial Career
Following her tenure as Minister, Vilar was a candidate for Mayor of Lomas de Zamora in the 2023 general election, representing the Unión por la Patria coalition. She was not elected. She currently serves as a member of the Deliberative Council (Concejo Deliberante) of Lomas de Zamora.
Political Affiliation
Vilar is a prominent figure within the Justicialist Party and is closely associated with La Cámpora, a Kirchnerist youth political organization. Her political ideology aligns with progressive Peronism, emphasizing social justice, environmental protection, and state intervention in key economic and social areas.