Argentina's new president warns activists of strict action against protesters

The new protocol is aimed at preventing blockades, especially in Buenos Aires, where regular protests often block street for hours in what are commonly known as “piquetes.” Some groups are saying the protocol criminalizes the right to protest Days after taking office, the administration of Argentine President Javier Milei threatened to crack down on any protests that blocked streets and unveiled drastic economic measures that infuriated some labor and social organizations. Milei’s security minister, Patricia Bullrich, presented a new “protocol” to maintain public order that allows federal forces to clear people blocking streets without a judicial order and authorizes the police to identify — through video or digital means — people protesting and obstructing public thoroughfares. The new protocol is aimed at preventing blockades, especially in Buenos Aires, where regular protests often block street for hours in what are commonly known as “piquetes.” Some groups are saying the protocol goes too far and criminalizes the right to protest. Its leader, Eduardo Belliboni, said Milei’s government is planning to go “against the right to protest.” People were called to protest in Buenos Aires, marching from Congress to the historic Plaza de Mayo.