Argentina’s Milei seeks to deport foreigners that spread ‘hate’ of country

Experts have cast doubt on legality of the emergency decree as Milei decries a campaign of ‘hostility’ after World Cup.Argentinian President Javier Milei has signed an emergency decree empowering the government to eject foreigners who spread “hate” about the South American nation.The legality of the measure, signed on Thursday, has already been questioned by experts. The decree allows the government to bar, deport or revoke the visas of those who express “hate” or tarnish national symbols.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3Bolsonaro’s son begins Brazil presidential bid with Netanyahu, Milei kudoslist 2 of 3When Argentina play a World Cup final, Latin America cheers for opponentslist 3 of 3Iran says Spain World Cup win brings joy to critics of US, Israelend of listIn announcing the measure, Milei’s office addressed the global animus Argentina faced after its appearance in the 2026 FIFA-world-cup" class="entity-link entity-event" data-entity-id="1741" data-entity-type="event">FIFA World Cup.The country reached the final match of the tournament, but its second-place finish was tarnished by accusations of racism among its players and fans. Milei framed that backlash as a campaign to discredit the country.“In light of recent displays of hostility toward the Argentine Republic and Argentines, the national government reaffirms that the defence of the nation, its citizens and its symbols is non-negotiable,” the president’s office said.“Anyone who attacks the Argentine Republic is not welcome in our country.”The decree comes at a time when many Argentinians have expressed frustration over what they see as unfair criticism of their team during the recent World Cup.That tournament, which concluded on July 19 with Spain defeating Argentina, prompted speculation about favourable officiating for the Argentinian side.After the final match ended, a brawl appeared to break out on the football pitch. FIFA this week announced it would initiate a disciplinary probe against three Argentinian players and one coach, citing allegations of “unsporting behaviour”. One Spanish player was also cited.