Mass Protests Have Begun In Argentina
- 7.08.2026, 8:23
In Buenos Aires, clashes broke out between police and protesters.
In Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, clashes broke out between police and protesters opposing President Javier Milei’s bill to reform private property laws. Citizens fear that foreigners will buy up too much land in the country.
This was reported by Deutsche Welle.
Thousands of people gathered outside the Senate building, claiming that the proposed changes could jeopardize the country’s control over its own land. At the same time, the government maintains that the reform is necessary to attract investment and streamline economic procedures.
The protest was organized by left-wing political movements and labor unions outside the Senate building, where the “Private Property Immunity” bill is being debated.
According to the EFE news agency, the protest was initially peaceful. However, AFP reported that some demonstrators began throwing stones and other objects at the police.
What’s Wrong with the Private Property Bill
Controversy has arisen over provisions in the bill, which aims to change the rules governing the use of rural land, simplify eviction procedures, and limit the state’s ability to expropriate private property.
A proposal to increase the land ownership limit for foreign buyers from 15% to 25% of the country’s territory sparked particular outrage. However, following a wave of criticism, the ruling party decided to remove this provision from the bill.
Javier Milei’s government claims that the reform will help Argentina attract foreign investment and make property rules more transparent for businesses.
The president’s opponents, on the other hand, warn of the risk of losing control over national resources. During the protests, participants held signs reading “The homeland is not for sale.”
How much land in Argentina has already been purchased by foreigners?
According to a 2025 study conducted by researchers from the University of Buenos Aires and other academic institutions, approximately 5% of Argentina’s territory is already owned by foreign companies. This is roughly equivalent to the area of England.
The study’s authors note that in some regions, the share of foreign land ownership already exceeds the current 15% limit.
At the same time, supporters of the reform believe that opening up the land market could stimulate economic growth in a country that has been struggling with high inflation and a lack of investment for years.