Milei signs decree to expel foreigners who insult Argentines

Argentine President Javier Milei has enacted a decree that prohibits foreigners from entering the country if they have insulted Argentines, and allows for the expulsion of those already residing in Argentina. Published in the Official Gazette on Thursday, the decree amends the Migration Law, adding new reasons to deny entry and revoke residency permits.

The government's justification for the decree states that there has been a "considerable increase in messages of hate and acts of hostility and contempt directed specifically against the Argentine people, their culture, and their national identity." It further asserts that such conduct poses "a risk to all Argentines" and disrupts "harmonious coexistence and social peace."

However, the decree includes a clarification that it "shall in no case apply" to "expressions of ideological dissent or political, academic, or citizen criticism that constitute a legitimate exercise of constitutionally guaranteed rights." This distinction aims to differentiate between genuine criticism and perceived insults or hostility.

The move follows accusations from the Argentine government of a supposed "anti-Argentina" campaign, particularly after the 2026 World Cup final. President Milei had previously alleged that the Brazilian government, with support from Mexico and the U.S. Democratic Party, financed this campaign. While Mexico's president denied involvement, Argentine officials pointed to social media criticisms from figures like Spanish singer Rosalía and actors Samuel L. Jackson and Javier Bardem as examples of the alleged campaign. These criticisms reportedly focused on perceived refereeing assistance to Argentina during the World Cup and accusations of racism.

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The defense of the nation, of its citizens and of its symbols is not negotiable. Whoever attacks the Argentine Republic is not welcome in our country.