Amnesty International urged the Argentine government to ensure adequate pensions for the elderly after the pension moratorium’s expiration. The organization highlighted that failing to act would violate international law and harm vulnerable populations, particularly women. Law 27705, enacted in 2023, aimed at providing pension relief but faced opposition from the government, leading to protests that escalated into violence.
Amnesty International has called upon the Argentinian government to ensure the provision of adequate pensions and living standards for elderly citizens, especially after the expiration of a pension moratorium. The organization warns that the government’s inaction could lead to detrimental impacts on older individuals, particularly forcing them to work past the age of 65, and resort to alternatives that fail to meet essential needs. Women, notably, would be disproportionately affected by this failure.
International law, as outlined in Article 9 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), to which Argentina is a signatory, mandates the recognition of the right to social security for all individuals. Furthermore, Article 11 emphasizes the obligation to provide an adequate standard of living for every person and their family, thus imposing responsibilities on the state to uphold these rights.
In 2023, Argentina’s National Congress enacted Law 27705, which provided pension moratoriums for individuals who struggled to meet the 30-year contribution requirement for social security. This law aimed to facilitate affordable payment plans addressing social security debts to secure pensions for retirement. It was implemented to tackle the significant disparities faced by the over 47% of workers engaged in informal labor, with many lacking protections—predominantly affecting women and girls.
In response to the government’s decision not to extend the pension moratoriums, numerous pensioners took to the streets to express their dissatisfaction. These protests escalated into violent confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in injuries to both protesters and police personnel. The demonstrations saw participation from diverse groups, including young people and supporters of major football clubs like Boca Juniors and River Plate.
In conclusion, Amnesty International’s appeal highlights the urgent need for Argentina to uphold its commitments under international law regarding the welfare of its elderly population. The expiration of the pension moratorium has illuminated critical vulnerabilities that could force older individuals, especially women, into precarious living conditions. With significant portions of the labor market operating informally, it is essential for the government to address these disparities. The public outcry signifies a collective demand for adequate support and protections for all elderly citizens.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
