Intellectuals call for Milei to be declared ‘persona non grata’ in Paris

Around 50 politicians, intellectuals and artists have taken it upon themselves to urge Paris City Hall to brand Argentina's President Javier Milei as persona non grata in the French capital. This call comes in the lead-up to Milei's anticipated visit to Paris in late September and early October. The petition, which was published on the change.org website, argues that Milei's stringent austerity measures have taken a toll on Argentine society.

The petition also demands that Paris, alongside its mayor, Socialist leader Emmanuel Grégoire, refuse to host any official meetings with Milei, avoid giving him any honors, and reiterate the city's support for the democratic movements in Argentina.

Rodrigo Arenas, a Paris councillor and a left-wing lawmaker, expressed his disagreement with Milei's denial of Argentina's historical events and his role in the erasure of the atrocities committed during the country's dictatorship. The petition has already amassed over 500 signatures, and among the first 50 signatories are Paris Socialist councillor Geneviève Garrigos, renowned Argentine actor Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, lawyer Sophie Thonon, who represents the families of French nationals who went missing during Argentina's dictatorship, as well as filmmakers Santiago Amigorena and Alberto Marquardt.

The petition brings to light several issues concerning Argentina. It criticizes Milei for his "dismantling of public services," his "violations of women's rights," and "police repression." Additionally, the signatories condemn Milei's downplaying of the military dictatorship's crimes. In light of these concerns, the petition also highlights the situation at Casa Argentina, a prestigious residence at the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris.

The residence is currently overseen by lawyer Santiago Muzio, who was appointed by Milei's administration.

Paris City Hall has reached out to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to investigate the issues at Casa Argentina. These concerns include the removal of a plaque commemorating people who disappeared during the dictatorship and the organization of meetings promoting far-right ideologies. Barrot acknowledged that discussions with Argentine authorities and their representatives in Paris are ongoing. However, he did not provide further details regarding the investigation's progress or its likely outcome.