Argentina’s Intelligence Plan Sparks Fears Over Press Freedom and Government Overreach

Argentinian President Javier Milei’s administration is under fire following reports that a leaked intelligence plan might enable state surveillance of journalists, political figures, and economists. Published by La Nación and authored by acclaimed investigative journalist Hugo Alconada Mon, the report delves into a document attributed to the State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE) outlining broad national security goals. The vagueness of the language used in the document has stirred public concern.

Alconada Mon’s investigation highlights that the intelligence objectives include preventing terrorism and tackling organized crime, but also mention monitoring those who allegedly “erode” public trust in national security officials. He questions whether such language could be interpreted to target not only foreign actors but also domestic critics, including members of the media and civil society. The ambiguity has led to fears that the document may be weaponized against dissent.

Despite confirming the existence of the new intelligence strategy, Milei’s office issued a public denial of the allegations, stating that the government has no intention of using the SIDE to target political adversaries or journalists. “This is the first government in decades that has made the political decision not to use the SIDE for persecution,” the statement read, seeking to reassure the public.

Alconada Mon said he had validated the authenticity of the 170-page document through two reliable sources. However, he cautioned that its lack of clarity could open the door to either responsible application or severe misuse. He emphasized that while the document might appear to aim at shielding Argentina from foreign interference, it could also easily be interpreted in ways that undermine civil liberties.

He further elaborated that modern threats such as foreign election manipulation are legitimate concerns, referencing cases involving Russia’s influence abroad. But the line becomes blurred when the same tools used to detect foreign influence could be turned inward on critics and analysts. That, according to Alconada Mon, is what places Argentina in a potentially dangerous “gray zone.”

CNN has not accessed the full document and cannot independently verify its claims. Still, the situation has ignited a national conversation about transparency, democratic protections, and the