Background on Key Figures and Context
The Argentine government, led by ultraliberal President Javier Milei, has recently authorized civilians to purchase semi-automatic and assault weapons. This decision was announced through a decree published in the official gazette on Wednesday.
Key Figures
- Javier Milei: The ultraliberal President of Argentina who has been pushing for more liberal policies, including the recent gun law changes.
- Guillermo Francos: The Chief of Ministers who signed the decree alongside President Milei.
- Patricia Bullrich: The Minister of Security who also signed the decree and has been a strong advocate for gun rights.
Relevance and Impact
Argentina, with a population of approximately 45 million, has seen a significant rise in gun-related crimes. According to data from the Center for Legal and Social Studies, half of the intentional homicides in 2022 were committed using firearms. This new decree aims to address this issue by relaxing gun ownership regulations.
Details of the Decree
The decree allows “legitimate users” to buy and possess semi-automatic firearms with detachable magazines similar to military-grade rifles, carbines, or assault submachine guns derived from firearms originally designed for military use with a caliber higher than.22. This decision overturns a 1995 ban restricting such weapon purchases to military use only.
Previous Gun Law Changes
- In May, the government simplified gun permit acquisition through a “tenencia express” (express possession) process, making it easier for civilians to obtain firearms.
- By the end of 2024, another decree by Milei lowered the minimum legal age for carrying firearms from 21 to 18.
Rationale Behind the Changes
Minister Bullrich, a strong proponent of gun rights, argued that if individuals can vote, serve in the military, or join security forces at 18, they should also have the right to carry firearms. President Milei, while supportive of gun rights during his time as a congressman, stated that a reform in this area was not part of his platform after assuming the presidency.
Current Gun Ownership Situation in Argentina
Approximately one million people, mostly men, hold firearm user credentials in Argentina. However, more than 65% of these credentials are expired, according to a May investigation by Chequeado based on information access requests.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main goal of this new decree? The primary objective is to address rising gun-related crimes in Argentina by relaxing regulations around civilian firearm ownership.
- Who are the key figures behind this change? President Javier Milei, Chief of Ministers Guillermo Francos, and Minister of Security Patricia Bullrich are the main proponents of this decree.
- Why was the minimum legal age for carrying firearms reduced? Minister Bullrich argued that if 18-year-olds can vote, serve in the military, or join security forces, they should also have the right to carry firearms.
- What is the current state of gun ownership in Argentina? Around one million people in Argentina have firearm user credentials, but over 65% of these credentials are expired.
