IACHR expresses concern over violence during the Retirees' Protest March and reminds Argentina of inter-American standards

March 19, 2025

Washington, DC—The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) expresses deep concern over the violence that took place during the Retirees' Protest March in Buenos Aires on March 12, 2025. The State of Argentina must uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, ensuring that security protocols entail a human rights focus and that any use of force during protests aligns with inter-American standards.

Reports indicate that the authorities responded to this protest with a security operation that involved the use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons. Some 20 people were injured as a result of this response, including an 87-year-old retiree who suffered a head injury. Likewise, 114 people were detained, including a 12-year-old and a 14-year-old, who were later released by the judiciary. Direct attacks on journalists were also documented, including the case of a 35-year-old photojournalist who was critically injured by a tear gas canister and whose condition remains serious. Several other journalists were physically assaulted, threatened, and prevented from carrying out their professional duties.

These incidents occurred during the so-called Retirees' Protest March, a peaceful rally held weekly since 2024 to highlight opposition to the economic austerity measures implemented by Argentina's current administration, which have significantly affected the rights of pensioners. The State reported that violent incidents took place at last week's march, referring specifically to the involvement of organized groups of football supporters. These involved the use of "bladed weapons, firearms, and incendiary devices against security forces, resulting in attacks that damaged public property and injured members of the security forces, including at least fourteen police officers." The State stressed that it is investigating these incidents and underscored its commitment to inter-American standards on social protest.

The IACHR reiterates that social protest is a cornerstone of democratic societies. The right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly allows people to express their views, voice their concerns, and challenge public policies and government decisions. Consequently, it is the duty of the Argentinian State to respect, protect, facilitate, and ensure the comprehensive exercise of these rights, using force only as an absolute last resort. Furthermore, the State must ensure journalists and media workers can document and report on protests without fear of violence, intimidation, or obstruction, as they play an essential role in informing the public and guaranteeing effective oversight of police conduct.

According to official sources, the Ministry of Security filed criminal charges against the judge who ordered the releases, alleging malfeasance, negligence, and obstruction of justice. In response, the IACHR notes that the State must safeguard judicial independence, which may be compromised when criminal charges target lawfully issued judicial rulings.

The IACHR reminded the Argentinian State that a few individuals engaging in acts of violence cannot be used to justify the repression of an entire demonstration or the restriction of the rights of those protesting peacefully. In such cases, security forces must act in a targeted and proportionate manner, isolating those who engage in violence and using force only as a last resort, in a manner that is exceptional, proportional, and strictly in line with international and inter-American standards.

Lastly, the IACHR acknowledges Argentina's strong tradition of civic engagement, which has been instrumental in strengthening its democracy. In this regard, they urge the Argentinian authorities to conduct swift, impartial, diligent investigations into possible cases of excessive use of force and to hold those responsible accountable. They also call on authorities to promote genuine, effective, inclusive dialogue to address the population's legitimate grievances.

The IACHR is a principal and autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS), whose mandate stems from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission has the mandate to promote the observance and defense of human rights in the region and acts as an advisory body to the OAS on the matter. The IACHR is made up of seven independent members who are elected by the OAS General Assembly in their personal capacity, and do not represent their countries of origin or residence.

No. 055/25

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