Argentina - November 2025

In November, President Javier Milei named Lieutenant General Carlos Presti as the country’s new Minister of Defence. The appointment marks a historic shift, as it is the first time since the return to democracy in 1983 that a serving military officer (rather than a civilian) has assumed this role. The decision, framed by the government as an effort to end the ‘demonization’ of the armed forces, has sparked significant debate. Critics, including human rights organizations, view this move as a potential threat to democratic norms, given Argentina's history of military dictatorship and human rights abuses. Supporters argue it reflects a pragmatic approach to defence leadership. This appointment signals an increased role for the military in governance, raising concerns about its implications for civilian oversight and the preservation of democratic principles in Argentina.

Sources: Marco Press, El Pais, BBC, Página 12

Argentina's government announced the creation of the National Migration Agency (ANM), a new body under the Ministry of Security tasked with enforcing immigration laws and coordinating federal law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Police, Airport Police, Naval Prefecture, and Gendarmerie. Inspired by the US Border Patrol, the ANM aims to strengthen border security and combat transnational crime through a unified and operationally coordinated structure. This shift represents a significant change, as immigration oversight historically fell under the Ministry of the Interior. The government emphasized that the ANM would address migration as a national security priority, reflecting a broader trend of adopting U.S.-style security models. While proponents argue this change enhances efficiency in tackling organized crime, critics have expressed concerns about the potential erosion of civil liberties and the implications for accountability in Argentina.

Sources: Ministerio de Seguridad Nacional (1), Ministerio de Seguridad Nacional (2),  El País, La Nación 

On 18 November, an Argentine congressional commission concluded its investigation into the alleged $LIBRA cryptocurrency fraud, implicating President Javier Milei and his sister, Karina Milei, in the scheme. The report accuses Milei of using his presidential platform to promote $LIBRA, a cryptocurrency that collapsed in value shortly after its launch, causing significant financial losses to over 114,000 investors. The commission highlighted Milei's social media endorsement of $LIBRA, which boosted demand before a ‘rug pull’ —a fraudulent manoeuvre where insiders abruptly withdraw funds, causing the asset's value to plummet—led to its abrupt devaluation. The report also alleges misuse of government resources and connections to facilitate the scheme, raising questions about Milei's role and accountability. While the findings have been submitted to judicial authorities, further congressional action is unlikely as many of the new lawmakers elected in October’s mid-term elections are aligned with Milei. They will assume office on 10 December.

Sources: El País, Indo Premier, AP News, International IDEA