Javier Milei Signs Decree to Expel Foreigners Spreading Hate

President Javier Milei signed an emergency decree on July 31, 2026, amending the Immigration Act to allow the government to deny entry to, revoke visas for, or expel foreign nationals who incite discrimination or violence against Argentines or desecrate national symbols. The measure follows a wave of international hostility and social media criticism directed at Argentina after the national football team lost the World Cup final and engaged in a post-match brawl with Spanish players.

Milei characterized the backlash as a coordinated "anti-Argentina campaign," alleging without evidence that the governments of Brazil and Mexico and the U.S. Democratic Party financed the effort. These accusations triggered a diplomatic crisis, leading Brazil to recall its ambassador. Separately, FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association over player misconduct and alleged racist abuse during the tournament.

While the decree explicitly excludes constitutionally protected political, academic, or civil criticism, opposition lawmaker Maximiliano Ferraro dismissed the move as "exclusionary nationalist theater." Ferraro questioned how officials would determine if a person engaged in a "hate message" versus protected speech. The decree now faces review by the Senate, the Chamber of Deputies, and various parliamentary committees.