‘Mini-dictatorship’: Students slam far-right turn at Argentina-run residence in Paris
Weeks before President Javier Milei visits France, scrutiny has grown around an Argentina-run university residence in Paris supposed to promote peaceful coexistence but which activists say instead restricts lodger freedoms and hosts European far-right figures. Paris city officials have demanded the foreign ministry investigate Argentina House, one of dozens of homes run by foreign nations or…
Activists have accused an Argentina-run student residence in Paris of devolving into a "mini-dictatorship" as it prepares to host incoming President Javier Milei. The house, operated by Argentina in France's Cite Universitaire campus, has reportedly restricted resident freedoms and hosted far-right European figures. Former residents express fear and surveillance, with common areas now off-limits.
The house's director, Santiago Muzio, a fervent Catholic appointed by Milei in 2024, has been criticized for restricting LGBTQ+ rights and discussions of Argentina's 1976-83 military rule's victims. Reports indicate far-right groups, including those from Poland and Hungary, have held meetings at the house, even presenting a plan to dismantle the European Union.
Despite claims of human rights and privacy protections, the residence's director refused to sign its charter, citing refusal to recognize gender equality and non-discrimination. The situation came to a head when the residence removed a plaque honoring those disappeared during Argentina's military dictatorship, leading to the eviction of 13 students protesting the removal.
As France prepares for presidential elections where far-right parties are favored, the campus authorities are investigating Argentina House's management before Milei's visit in late September.
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