Protests Erupt in Buenos Aires: Retirees and Soccer Fans Unite Against Austerity

On March 12, 2025, retirees and soccer fans in Buenos Aires protested against austerity measures enforced by President Javier Milei. The protest turned violent as police clashed with demonstrators, escalating tensions. Retirees have been demanding higher pensions, and this event marked significant unity among different soccer club fans. The government responded with bans on those engaging in violence from attending matches.

On March 12, 2025, retirees and soccer fans in Buenos Aires protested against the austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei’s administration. The initially peaceful demonstration escalated into violent clashes with police forces who employed tear gas, water cannons, and rubber pellets as protesters threw stones. This marked a significant escalation in the ongoing protests by retirees, who have been advocating for increased pensions due to their challenging living conditions.

For weeks, Buenos Aires retirees have organized weekly protests demanding better pensions. Although past protests experienced minor incidents, the protest on March 12 was notable for its intensity. President Milei’s far-right government has implemented public spending cuts since taking office, which has stirred significant public unrest. The government had even cautioned against disorderly conduct at soccer stadiums.

Tensions rose when a large group of Boca Juniors fans joined the retirees, chanting solidarity slogans as they approached Congress. Police set up barriers to prevent their march towards the legislative building, while high-pressure water cannons were targeted at the elderly protesters who were pushed back in the ensuing chaos. This demonstration witnessed unprecedented solidarity among fans from various soccer clubs, who united with pensioners in their demands.

Protesters chanted, “Don’t touch the elderly,” emphasizing their goal of protecting retirees during this time of unrest. Notably, a man wrapped in the Argentine flag held a sign urging support against the government’s austerity measures. Subsequent to the protest, a resolution from Argentina’s Ministry of Security stated that anyone displaying violent behavior would face a ban from attending soccer games, affecting those involved in the clashes.

The protests in Buenos Aires illustrate growing discontent with President Javier Milei’s austerity measures, particularly among retirees facing worsening financial conditions. The convergence of soccer fans and pensioners demonstrates a unified front against the government’s economic policies. The use of force by police and the subsequent prohibitions on fans highlights the escalating tensions in Argentina as citizens seek to advocate for their rights.

Original Source: www.clickorlando.com