On March 18, 2025, human rights organizations condemned the violent repression of the “march for the retired” in Argentina, where excessive police force injured many, including children. The government has intensified its crackdown on protests, criminalizing dissent. This escalation threatens democratic rights, prompting calls for accountability and international support for citizens’ demands.
On March 18, 2025, multiple social and human rights organizations expressed their grave concerns regarding the severe repression of social protests in Argentina. This incident occurred during a longstanding weekly “march for the retired” in Buenos Aires, aimed at opposing cuts to pension and medical services amidst ongoing economic austerity measures.
The actions taken by security forces to disperse the protest were deemed abusive and excessive, violating both regional and international standards that protect the right to peaceful assembly. As a result, over twenty individuals were hospitalized, and 114 people were detained—including minors—the majority being released later due to lack of information regarding their arrests.
Eyewitness accounts included the harrowing incident of an 87-year-old woman who was struck on the head by a police officer. Notably, photographer Pablo Grillo was critically injured by a tear gas canister while documenting the event. Children leaving a nearby school were also exposed to tear gas. The police employed tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons indiscriminately against participants, showcasing a disturbing pattern of violent suppression.
In December 2023, the current government’s regulations re-enabled the use of gas guns during protests, reversing an earlier ban. The renewed policies criminalize demonstrations associated with street or road blockades and empower security forces to disperse protests and carry firearms during such events.
The Argentine government’s systematic repression and criminalization of demonstrators represent concerning tactics employed to silence dissent and curtail democratic freedoms. In 2024 alone, over 93 individuals were arbitrarily detained during protests, with over 600 sustaining injuries.
Alarmingly, official narratives have framed these protests as threats to governmental stability, invoking violent rhetoric against demonstrators. Key government officials labeled protests as efforts to destabilize the government and even likened activists to “terrorist leaders.” The Minister of Security defended police conduct, vowing further criminalization of participants, including potential deportations of demonstrators who are immigrants.
The dramatic escalation of state violence and the potential infringement of rights associated with protest and free speech pose significant risks to Argentina’s democratic framework. The involved organizations reiterated their support for the Argentine populace’s demands for improved living conditions and called for accountability for police actions.
These developments highlight the increasing authoritarianism in Argentina, prompting a broader regional call for solidarity and defense of democratic principles throughout Latin America. International bodies, including Amnesty International and other regional organizations, emphasize the urgent need to safeguard civic spaces and the rights of all individuals engaged in peaceful dissent.
In summary, the repression of social protests in Argentina, particularly against the backdrop of economic austerity, has raised serious concerns about the violation of democratic rights and freedoms. The violent responses from security forces underscore a troubling trend of criminalizing dissent. It is imperative that the Argentine government uphold its international obligations to protect the rights of demonstrators while fostering an environment conducive to free expression and civic engagement. Continued vigilance and support from both local and international organizations are essential to counteract the rising authoritarianism in the region.
Original Source: www.omct.org
