Land bill triggers mass protests in Argentina

Thousands of people gathered in Buenos Aires to protest a bill that would change the rules governing land ownership and land use in Argentina. As the demonstration outside the Senate came to an end, clashes broke out between protesters and police. Security forces used tear gas, rubber bullets and a water cannon after some demonstrators threw stones and other objects.

President Javier Milei’s government says the bill is intended to strengthen private property rights and create a more attractive environment for investment. Among other measures, it would streamline eviction procedures, revise land-use regulations and limit the state’s ability to expropriate private property.

Ahead of the Senate debate, the government withdrew the bill’s most controversial provision, which would have raised the maximum share of land allowed to be owned by foreign individuals or entities from 15% to 25%. Nevertheless, trade unions, left-wing groups and civil society organizations proceeded with the protest, arguing that the reform could weaken national control over strategically important land.

According to researchers at the University of Buenos Aires, nearly 5% of Argentina’s territory is already owned by foreign entities. In several districts rich in water and mineral resources or located near key ports, foreign ownership already exceeds the current 15% legal limit, reinforcing concerns voiced by opponents of the reform.