Argentina has sparked global debate by reversing a three-decade ban to permit civilians to purchase semi-automatic weapons and assault rifles. What does this bold move signal for both Argentina and international norms?
At a Glance
- Argentina’s President Javier Milei has signed a decree lifting a 30-year ban on the sale of semi-automatic and assault-style weapons to civilians.
- The new law was co-signed by Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos and Security Minister Patricia Bullrich.
- The minimum age for most gun ownership has been lowered to 18 years.
- Fewer than one million Argentinians currently hold gun licenses, with many of those being expired.
- The move has ignited a fierce debate, with critics calling it “reckless” while supporters champion it as a restoration of individual liberties.
Argentina’s New Gun Law Explained
Argentina’s President Javier Milei has signed a new decree allowing civilians to acquire semi-automatic and assault-style rifles, a dramatic reversal of policies imposed over three decades ago. This decision aligns with his libertarian campaign promises to ease restrictions on gun ownership.
According to a report from Turkiye Today, while the policy change facilitates broader access, it still requires “legitimate users” to prove their intentions are for sporting use and to meet other criteria. The decree also introduces a streamlined digital process to make it easier for Argentinians to obtain gun permits.
A Push for Individual Liberties
The law’s proponents argue it is a common-sense move to restore individual freedoms. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich defended the decision to lower the minimum gun ownership age to 18. “At 16, you have the right to vote. At 18, you can go to war, start a family, or join a security force,” she argued in a statement covered by the Buenos Aires Times. “So why shouldn’t you be able to own a weapon at 18?”
This move is emblematic of Milei’s broader libertarian approach, which extends beyond gun regulations to the nation’s economic and social spheres.
A “Reckless and Irresponsible” Move?
With the easing of regulations, the potential risks are hard to ignore. The half a million Argentines holding expired licenses, coupled with recent stats showing firearms are involved in one out of every two homicides, hint at possible repercussions.
Critics, including seasoned lawyer Julián Alfie, argue the government is taking a grave risk. “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,” Alfie said. There are serious concerns that this could lead to an increase in illegal weapon trafficking and organized crime. As Argentina steps onto this unfamiliar ground, the significant loosening of firearm restrictions will not only shape its future but could also influence global perspectives on gun ownership.
