Argentine President Javier Milei has signed an emergency decree empowering the government to expel 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.

In announcing the measure, Milei's office addressed the global animus Argentina faced after its appearance in the 2026 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. 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'.

Milei has asserted, without evidence, that global criticism is the result of a coordinated 'anti-Argentina campaign' financed by leftists in Brazil, Mexico and the United States Democratic Party. Brazil recalled its ambassador last weekend in response to those accusations. The decree does not include details about how the term 'hate' will be defined and whether immigration authorities will search the social media histories of tourists and foreign residents.

Source: www.aljazeera.com