Argentina’s bold decision to overturn a 30-year ban on assault rifles could mark the dawn of a new era—and not everyone thinks it’s a good idea.
At a Glance
- President Javier Milei revokes Argentina’s long-standing ban on civilian ownership of assault-style weapons.
- The decree, co-signed by key officials, legalizes “legitimate” civilian use of semi-automatic weapons.
- Critics and advocates clash, as regulations relax and the potential for misuse escalates.
- A fast-track process eases weapon license acquisition while critics warn of regulation lapses.
Milei’s Gun Ownership Reforms: A Controversial Move
President Javier Milei has done it—overturned a restrictive gun law that restricted Argentine civilians from purchasing semi-automatic and assault-style weapons for over three decades. His administration’s decree grants “legitimate users,” those meeting stringent conditions, the right to own firearms once reserved for military use. Co-signed by Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos and Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, the new policy marks a significant policy shift. Critics argue it’s reckless, yet supporters uphold this as a move toward individual rights.
This legislative leap is emblematic of Milei’s libertarian agenda. Though he hasn’t called for total deregulation, the president’s leniency regarding firearm accessibility is palpable. Argentina’s Security Minister Patricia Bullrich asserts, “At 16, you have the right to vote. At 18, you can go to war, start a family or join a security force. And, incredibly, at any age you can choose to change your sex, which will mark you for life. So why shouldn’t you be able to own a weapon at 18?”
Streamlined Licenses Amid Regulatory Concerns
The “tenencia express” program seeks to expedite the gun permit process online via the National Agency for Controlled Materials (ANMAC). Despite the ease this offers law-abiding citizens, critics emphasize the potential threats arising from insufficient regulatory oversight. Julián Alfie, a prominent attorney, rings alarm bells stating, “The government is being reckless and irresponsible on this issue, minimizing the consequences of these decisions and appearing to do so because of a fanatical and dogmatic stance on the use of firearms.”
“The government is being reckless and irresponsible on this issue, minimizing the consequences of these decisions and appearing to do so because of a fanatical and dogmatic stance on the use of firearms” – Julián Alfie – Source
Of Argentina’s approximately one million gun owners, a majority have not renewed licenses, signaling precarious enforcement. Critics worry on ANMAC’s effectiveness with merely ten inspectors across the nation, evoking concern about guns flowing into the black market or the hands of organized crime.
Future Expectations Under Milei’s Agenda
As Milei drives forward with his reformist agenda—including relaxed gun control and economic deregulations—the coming months will offer clarity (hopefully not chaos) about his broader impact on national security. The policy change stirs discussion around the world, indicating that the lines between security, freedom, and military force in civilian hands will keep blurring. Moreover, it begs the question of responsibility in governance and weapon ownership within society.
“At 16, you have the right to vote. At 18, you can go to war, start a family or join a security force. And, incredibly, at any age you can choose to change your sex, which will mark you for life. So why shouldn’t you be able to own a weapon at 18?” – Patricia Bullrich – Source
Milei’s initiatives are gaining notice globally, and as reform tightens its grip, many ask the vital questions about freedoms and what price society might pay. The tension between personal liberty and communal safety will demand lively debate, likely shaping Argentina’s political pulse in years to come.
