Following the World Cup Brawl, the President of Argentina Signs a Decree to Expel Foreigners Who Make Hate Speech

President of Argentina Javier Milei/DOK argentina.gob.ar Gobierno argentino via Wikimedia Commons

JAKARTA - Argentine President Javier Milei signed an emergency decree to ban the entry and allow the expulsion of foreign nationals who direct or incite hate speech against Argentines.

"Whoever attacks the Argentine Republic is not welcome in our country," according to a statement from the Argentine President's office, as reported by ANTARA from Anadolu, Thursday, July 30.

The Argentine government reiterated that the protection of the nation, its citizens, and its symbols "cannot be negotiated" following recent "expressions of hostility" directed at the country.

The Emergency Decree (DNU) stipulates that any foreign citizen who is proven to incite messages of hatred, discrimination, or violence based on Argentine citizenship will be banned from entering the territory.

The measures also cover those who insult or defile national patriotic symbols.

Although the official document does not mention specific events, the measures seem to respond to a surge in online criticism aimed at Argentina during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tournament, hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico, was marred by several controversial incidents, including the opening of a FIFA disciplinary action against the Argentine Football Association after players displayed banners regarding the Falkland Islands, which are administered by Britain but claimed by Argentina.

The football association is also under investigation for discriminatory chants and gestures, kick-off delays, security failures and objects thrown by supporters.

Separately, Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Argentine referee Roberto Ayala face potential assault charges after the final against Spain.

Molina, Thiago Almada, and Gavi from Spain are also being investigated for alleged unsportsmanlike conduct.