The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and its Special Rapporteurship for Freedom of Expression (RELE, by its initials in Spanish) issued a press release expressing alarm over the excessive use of public force against journalists and peaceful protesters in Argentina.

The press release was issued in response to the protests on June 12, when citizens attended a demonstration organized by labor unions, universities, and human rights organizations. The protest took place amid opposition to the Omnibus Bill proposed by Milei, which includes several reforms and was ratified by the Chamber of Deputies last month.

According to the Commission, there was a disproportionate use of violence against the protesters through the use of non-lethal weapons by the police force, infringing on the protesters’ rights to free association and freedom of expression. The IACHR also highlighted its concern over the stigmatizing statements made by the Government regarding the protests, as the Office of the President labeled the protesters against the Omnibus Bill as “terrorists” in official communications. Furthermore, the Commission expressed concern over reports of journalists and media workers being injured due to the alleged excessive use of pepper spray and rubber bullets by the police in previous protests.

Additionally, the IACHR and RELE condemned the use of violence by private individuals, such as the arson attack on a vehicle belonging to the media outlet “Cadena 3.” They also noted receiving information about the use of Molotov cocktails and flammable substances outside the Congress building.

Previously, the IACHR has addressed the situation of protests in Argentina. In February, the Commission reminded the Argentine State of its obligation to respect, protect, facilitate, and guarantee the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and to limit the use of force to situations where the circumstances justify its use.