Article today 2/21

Argentina Amends its Immigration Law, Speeds Up Deportations

Argentina made a major change to its immigration law to make it easier to banish foreigners who do crimes or who are under investigation.

President Mauricio Macri ordered the change to the 2003 immigration law.

The presidential order notes a rise in organized crime by foreigners and prevents immigrants who have criminal records from entering the country. It also speeds up expulsion for those who do crimes, including selling drugs and weapons or hiding illegal money.

The new law is designed to lower the increase in crime. The issue is a top concern among Argentinians who will vote in congressional elections later this year.

However, one human rights group said it is a mistake to think of the migration crisis as just an issue of national security, and to link immigrants with criminals.

Argentine Vice President Gabriela Michetti defended the new measure.

She told a local radio station that “Argentina is an open country that will always be in favor of diversity.” She also rejected suggestions that the new law is like an immigration order signed last month by Donald Trump, the new president of the United States.