Argentina's Border Fence Plan Sparks Tension with Bolivia
The Facts
The Argentine province of Salta is planning to construct a 200-meter-long, 3.5-meter-high (656-foot by 11.5-foot) fence along the Bermejo River border with Bolivia in Aguas Blancas, as part of the broader Güemes Plan security initiative launched by Security Minister Patricia Bullrich.
The fence, extending from the Aguas Blancas bus terminal to the immigration office, will include reinforced concrete posts, barbed wire, and concertina wire, aimed at preventing unauthorized border crossings and illegal activities.
The initiative involves deploying 310 federal troops in critical areas, including the Bermejo River and National Route 34, known as the "drug route," with joint efforts between federal and provincial forces to combat drug trafficking and smuggling.
The Spin
Right narrative
Argentina has become a porous nation with completely ineffective borders, which is why Pres. Milei's government is putting an end to the crisis. While a perimeter fence with Bolivia is a good start, the government must continue its security measures along the borders of every neighboring country. Illegal immigration and drug smuggling must be ended for good.
Left narrative
While preventing violence is a noble goal, Argentina would be going against its history of welcoming immigrants if it began demonizing migration. Immigrants, whether smuggled into the country or not, are an integral part of Argentine society and should be helped, not hindered in their efforts to join the country, its customs, and its economy.