Social and Political Crisis in Argentina: From Pensioners’ Protests to a Nationwide Movement

In recent weeks, Argentina has experienced widespread protests that began with pensioners demanding higher pensions and the reinstatement of free medication subsidies. With a minimum pension of approximately $340 per month, many elderly citizens struggle to afford basic necessities, fueling frustration toward the government’s austerity measures.

The Unlikely Role of Football
The protests escalated when football fan groups, traditionally rivals, united in solidarity with pensioners. On March 13, supporters from various teams joined the demonstrations, leading to intense clashes with police. Security forces responded with water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets, while some protesters retaliated by throwing stones and other objects.

Criminalizing Protesters
The government labeled radical football supporters, Barras Bravas, as a major threat to public order and proposed legislation to classify their activities as organized crime. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich announced that if passed, the law would impose harsher penalties on these groups, signaling a broader attempt to suppress dissent.

Severe Repression
The protests were met with extreme police brutality. On March 13, security forces launched a full-scale crackdown, using tear gas, rubber bullets, and high-pressure water cannons against demonstrators. Reports indicate that dozens were injured. Among them was independent photographer Pablo Grillo, who remains in a coma after being struck in the head by a tear gas canister. The violent repression has sparked outrage, with many calling for the resignation of the security minister.

The crisis has deepened divisions within Argentina’s government. Judge Karina Andrade ordered the release of 114 detained protesters due to a lack of evidence, prompting the Ministry of Security to file a lawsuit against her, accusing her of neglecting her duties. This legal battle highlights growing tensions between the executive and judicial branches over how to handle the escalating crisis.

Continued Protests and Upcoming Nationwide Strikes
Despite the violent crackdown, the protests have not subsided. On March 13, a nationwide strike took place, and on March 19, thousands marched in Buenos Aires against the government’s economic policies and in support of pensioners. Organized by labor unions and social groups, the demonstration underscored that the movement has grown beyond its original demands.
With frustration mounting, the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Argentina’s largest labor federation, announced another nationwide 24-hour strike on April 10. The strike aims to protest austerity policies, mass layoffs, and the declining purchasing power of the working class.

Corruption Among Social Activists and Syndicalists
Notably, some active social forces, particularly syndicalists close to the government, have been implicated in corruption. This has led them to acquiesce to policies that increase social injustice, such as extending working hours and reducing the quality of life for the poor. Additionally, these syndicates have consistently delayed strikes, undermining efforts to address workers’ grievances.

Suspension of Labor and Welfare Policies
President Javier Milei’s administration is also pushing to suspend all policies that reduce working hours and provide social assistance. These measures, which were originally designed to alleviate economic hardship for vulnerable groups, are now at risk of being rolled back, further exacerbating social tensions.

What began as a protest by pensioners has evolved into a large-scale movement drawing support from diverse social groups, including football fans and labor unions. The government’s severe repression, from street crackdowns to judicial pressure, has not quelled public discontent.

Barras Bravas: Beyond Football and Their Ties to Criminal Networks, All free But protesters under the suppression due to their label
While the Barras Bravas are often associated with football violence, their influence extends far beyond stadiums. These groups, deeply entrenched in Argentina’s social fabric, have become powerful criminal organizations involved in various forms of illicit trade, including human trafficking, food trafficking, and underground production networks. Their operations not only fuel violence but also contribute to economic instability, exploiting marginalized communities for profit.

Moreover, growing evidence suggests that some Barras Bravas maintain connections with foreign powers, particularly the Chinese government. Through strategic alliances, China reportedly benefits from their activities, using their networks to secure economic and political leverage within Argentina. This complex web of influence raises concerns about the extent to which organized crime and foreign interests shape the country’s social and political landscape.How ever counting the protesters as criminal groups while the majority of them are not connected,that’s some thing even more suppressing.and goverment is using this name to put protesters under the pressure.

Amidst this reality, the government’s harsh crackdown on protesters appears selective. While pensioners, workers, and football fans face state violence for demanding economic justice, the deeper criminal structures within Barras Bravas remain largely untouched. This disparity highlights a broader crisis—one where corruption, repression, and external influence intertwine, leaving Argentina’s people to bear the consequences.
With another nationwide strike on the horizon, Argentina could be on the brink of even larger protests and deeper political unrest in the coming weeks.

✍Olivera