The new accreditation rules were enacted at a time of growing conflict between the far-right politician and the press.

On Friday, President Javier Milei published a series of restrictions in the Official Gazette regarding journalists’ access to the Pink House, the seat of the Executive Branch in Buenos Aires.

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These restrictions include measures such as a more stringent accreditation system, limited quotas, a minimum score evaluation, a requirement for extensive documentation, and reinforced codes of conduct.

The new regulations stipulate that press workers may only circulate through the building’s common areas when moving between entry points and the designated spaces for events or journalistic activities.

Access to press conferences has also been modified: the number of attendees per event will be limited, formal dress codes will be enforced, and adherence to conduct rules within the venue will be required.

The moderator will limit the duration of questions and manage microphone use, which must be returned immediately after each intervention—effectively eliminating the possibility of follow-up questions.

The Milei administration has also established a system of annual and occasional accreditation. To obtain annual accreditation, media outlets must submit detailed information supported by verifiable metrics regarding their audience and geographic reach, along with documentation concerning the applicant journalists’ professional background and employment relationship. They must also sign a sworn statement committing to abide by institutional respect and coexistence norms.

Independent journalists may apply for occasional accreditation valid for five days. To do so, they must submit a verifiable portfolio, editorial references, and proof of regular coverage of institutional topics.

One of the most controversial elements is the creation of an “objective evaluation matrix” that includes a mandatory scoring system for accreditation. The criteria include audience size, thematic specialization in governmental affairs, professional background, proper submission of all required documents, previous coverage of official events, and a demonstrated commitment to pluralism.

These criteria will be assessed by the Secretariat of Communication, headed by Presidential Spokesperson Manuel Adorni and operating under the authority of the Secretariat of the Presidency, led by Karina Milei. Only journalists who score a minimum of 35 points will be authorized to enter the Pink House.

These changes come amid rising tensions between the far-right politician’s regime and the press, marked by stigmatizing statements, budget cuts to public media, allegations of indirect censorship, and violence against journalists during demonstrations.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

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