Argentina to Shut Down Anti-Discrimination Institute (INADI) in Controversial Move

The Argentina government, under President Javier Milei, has announced plans to permanently close the National Institute against Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Racism (INADI), sparking widespread controversy and criticism. Created in 1995, INADI has been a pivotal institution in developing policies to combat discrimination. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni cited the closure as part of a broader initiative to reduce the state's footprint and eliminate non-beneficial state expenditures. Adorni argued that the institute, with around 400 employees and numerous offices nationwide, no longer serves a meaningful purpose and is a burden on taxpayers.

This decision aligns with Milei's governmental reduction strategy, aiming to lower taxes by cutting down on state expenses. However, the closure will not be immediate due to administrative procedures, with some institutions closing by decree and others by ministerial decision. The government's stance on enforcing law and order during protests against this move was clear, with Adorni warning that the police would intervene if streets were blocked.

Critics, including national deputies Esteban Paulon and Germán Martínez, argue that since INADI is established by law, its closure should not be unilateral and warn of the potentially discriminatory implications of this decision. The controversy extends to legislative challenges, with the government anticipating opposition in Congress but asserting the importance of respecting the legislative process. The closure of INADI marks a significant shift in Argentina's approach to handling discrimination, with many concerned about the implications for human rights and social justice in the country.