Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned the Argentine government for its violent response to protests led by pensioners demanding improved access to pensions, medical care, and social safety nets. The protests, which erupted over the government’s refusal to extend pension moratoriums, were met with excessive force from security forces, sparking widespread concern.
HRW’s Americas director, Juanita Goebertus, criticized the government for shielding police officers from accountability, accusing them of using “indiscriminate and reckless” force. HRW reported that security forces fired tear gas at protesters from unsafe angles, violating international standards. The organization called on Argentina’s authorities to investigate these actions thoroughly and ensure that excessive force is not used against peaceful protesters.
The protests were sparked by the government’s decision not to extend pension moratoriums, affecting citizens unable to meet the 30-year social security contribution requirement. Nearly 30% of Argentina’s workforce is employed in the informal sector, which does not contribute to social security, leaving workers at risk of not qualifying for pensions.
President Javier Milei’s administration defended the actions of the security forces, saying they were enforcing an “anti-protest protocol” that allows force to be used even when demonstrators do not pose a danger. The government also expressed its intention not to investigate the police response and filed complaints against a judge who ordered the release of 114 arrested protesters.
This incident is part of broader concerns over the Milei administration’s approach to governance. HRW also expressed concern about the government’s efforts to bypass Senate approval when appointing Supreme Court justices, a move the UN warned could undermine judicial independence in Argentina.
For further updates, international bodies are continuing to monitor the situation in Argentina.
[Source: Human Rights Watch, UN]
