Violence erupted in Buenos Aires as pensioners and football fans clashed with police during a protest against austerity measures implemented by President Javier Milei’s government. The demonstration, which took place on March 12, 2025, began peacefully but escalated when supporters of the Boca Juniors football club joined the retirees, leading to confrontations with riot police.
The pensioners have been protesting weekly outside the Congressional Palace, demanding higher pensions as their benefits have been cut to reduce government spending and combat rising inflation. On this occasion, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when Boca Juniors fans arrived, waving flags and chanting in solidarity with the elderly protesters.
As tensions rose, police deployed water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. Protesters responded by throwing rocks and setting cars ablaze. Eyewitnesses reported that nearly 90 people were detained, and at least 15 individuals were hospitalized, including a police officer who was shot and a protester injured by a tear gas canister.
The clashes highlighted the growing unrest in Argentina, where many citizens feel the impact of the government’s harsh economic policies. One protester held a sign reading, "Help me fight. You’ll be the next elderly person," emphasizing the urgency of their demands. Another woman displayed a shirt saying, "Don’t hit us, we are your parents!" as she stood defiantly in front of the police.
While the protest was initially organized by retirees, the participation of football fans from rival clubs like River Plate added a new dimension to the demonstration. This unexpected alliance among fans, usually at odds with one another, underscored the widespread discontent with the current government.
Security Minister Patricia Bullrich warned the organized groups of football fans, known as "barras bravas," that law enforcement would maintain order during these protests. The clashes reflect a significant moment in Argentina’s ongoing struggle with economic hardship and the growing frustration among its citizens regarding austerity measures and declining living standards.