Argentina Denies Intelligence Plan Targets Journalists and Political Critics

Argentina Denies Intelligence Plan Targets Journalists and Political Critics

The government of Argentine President Javier Milei has denied recent media reports suggesting that the country’s intelligence agency might surveil journalists, politicians, and economists under a newly approved national intelligence plan. Investigative journalist Hugo Alconada Mon from La Nación reported on a leaked 170-page strategy document by Argentina’s State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE), raising alarm over its vague and potentially overreaching directives.

According to Alconada Mon, the document includes standard intelligence goals such as counterterrorism and fighting organized crime. However, it also contains loosely defined language about monitoring anyone who may "erode public confidence" in national security authorities. The journalist warns that this terminology could potentially apply to not just foreign agents, but also to domestic critics, journalists, or academics.

The president's office acknowledged that a new intelligence plan exists, but firmly denied it was crafted to suppress dissent. A statement issued on May 25 declared, “This is the first government in decades that has politically committed not to use SIDE to persecute opponents, journalists, or political adversaries.” Officials emphasized that the intent is to protect national security without infringing on democratic freedoms.

Alconada Mon, one of Argentina’s most prominent investigative journalists and La Nación’s deputy editor, said he confirmed the authenticity of the leaked document through two independent sources. He noted that the document’s ambiguous wording leaves room for both reasonable and troubling interpretations, depending on how authorities choose to apply it in practice.

He also mentioned that the plan could be intended to counteract foreign threats such as election meddling by countries like Russia. While this purpose might seem valid on the surface, Alconada Mon warns that, without clarity, it risks being used to justify internal surveillance on those simply expressing critical opinions or engaging in public debate.

CNN has not independently reviewed the leaked intelligence document, and has not been able to verify its details. Nonetheless, concerns remain about the potential misuse of intelligence frameworks, especially in a country with a history of authoritarian overreach. Transparency advocates are urging the government to clarify and revise vague terms in any official policy documents going forward.

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