Argentina’s State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE) unveils a controversial National Intelligence Plan targeting critics and controlling public perception in the middle of growing concerns over democratic freedoms under President Javier Milei.

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In a troubling development for democracy in Latin America, Argentina’s State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE) has released a new National Intelligence Plan (PIN) that broadens its surveillance powers to monitor and potentially suppress voices deemed harmful to the government of President Javier Milei. The 170-page document, signals a dangerous expansion of state control over public discourse and political dissent.

Ambiguous Mandates Threaten Freedom of Expression

The plan explicitly targets individuals and groups that “erode trust” in government officials or “manipulate public opinion,” including through the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

However, the document fails to clearly define the scope and limits of these intelligence operations, blurring the lines between internal and external surveillance. This ambiguity raises alarms about the potential for abuse against journalists, economists critical of the government, social media influencers, and even government officials who deviate from the official narrative.

One of the plan’s key focuses is combating “disinformation” during electoral periods, though it remains vague whether this refers to foreign interference or domestic actors such as independent journalists and citizens.

This broad framing risks criminalizing legitimate political expression and dissent, undermining democratic participation and transparency. Analysts warn that such measures echo authoritarian tactics aimed at silencing opposition and consolidating power.

Since early May, SIDE’s budget has increased significantly, receiving an additional 25.25 billion Argentine pesos (approximately 22 million USD), bringing the total 2025 budget to over 80 billion pesos (71 million USD).

Notably, 13.4 billion pesos are allocated to “reserved expenses,” a euphemism often associated with secretive operations lacking public oversight. This financial empowerment of SIDE aligns with the Milei administration’s hardline stance and its strategic alignment with U.S. and Israeli intelligence policies.

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