Argentina Cracks Down on Soccer Hooligans with New Anti-Violence Law
Buenos Aires — The Argentine government is developing a extensive bill too combat soccer hooliganism, known as ”barrabravas,” following violent protests in which they participated.The proposed legislation aims to classify these groups as illicit organizations, hold club officials accountable, and impose strict penalties for related offenses.
Key Provisions of the Anti-Barrabravas Law
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of National Security, seeks to equate the penalties for “barrabravas” activities with those for serious crimes under the National Penal Code, potentially leading to prison sentences ranging from three to 20 years.
Response to Recent Violence
The government’s move comes after clashes during a protest where soccer hooligans allegedly mingled with political activists, resulting in property damage and injuries, including a photographer gravely wounded by a tear gas canister.
Expanding the Scope of Penalties
The proposed legislation extends beyond stadium violence, targeting individuals involved in related criminal activities, such as illegal parking (“trapitos”) near venues. It also incorporates existing regulations against fans engaging in violent acts or obstructing public transit.
Holding Club Officials Accountable
A key element of the bill focuses on penalizing club officials who provide tickets to these violent groups. This measure aims to cut off a crucial revenue stream that sustains the criminal operations of the “barrabravas”.
Stadium Ban and Event Oversight
The government also seeks the authority to impose administrative bans on individuals from entering stadiums, especially those facing legal proceedings under the “Anti-Barrabravas Law.” Event organizers could face sanctions for failing to prevent the entry of weapons into venues.
Treating Hooligans as Organized Criminals
sources suggest the bill aims to treat “barrabravas” as organized criminal entities, potentially applying principles similar to those in the recently approved “Anti-Mafia Law,” which targets complex crimes and criminal organizations.
Next Steps
The bill is currently in draft form and awaits final approval before being officially presented by President Javier Milei.
How does the proposed legislation aim to financially weaken the “barrabravas” and their operations?
argentina Cracks Down on Soccer Hooligans with New Anti-Violence Law
Buenos Aires — The Argentine government is developing a extensive bill too combat soccer hooliganism, known as ”barrabravas,” following violent protests in which they participated.The proposed legislation aims to classify these groups as illicit organizations, hold club officials accountable, and impose strict penalties for related offenses.
Key Provisions of the Anti-Barrabravas Law
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of National Security, seeks to equate the penalties for “barrabravas” activities with those for serious crimes under the National Penal Code, possibly leading to prison sentences ranging from three to 20 years.
Response to Recent Violence
The government’s move comes after clashes during a protest where soccer hooligans allegedly mingled with political activists, resulting in property damage and injuries, including a photographer gravely wounded by a tear gas canister.
Expanding the Scope of Penalties
The proposed legislation extends beyond stadium violence, targeting individuals involved in related criminal activities, such as illegal parking (“trapitos”) near venues. It also incorporates existing regulations against fans engaging in violent acts or obstructing public transit.
Holding Club Officials Accountable
A key element of the bill focuses on penalizing club officials who provide tickets to these violent groups. this measure aims to cut off a crucial revenue stream that sustains the criminal operations of the “barrabravas”.
Stadium Ban and Event Oversight
The government also seeks the authority to impose administrative bans on individuals from entering stadiums, especially those facing legal proceedings under the “Anti-Barrabravas Law.” Event organizers could face sanctions for failing to prevent the entry of weapons into venues.
Treating Hooligans as Organized Criminals
sources suggest the bill aims to treat “barrabravas” as organized criminal entities,potentially applying principles similar to those in the recently approved ”Anti-Mafia Law,” which targets complex crimes and criminal organizations.
Next Steps
The bill is currently in draft form and awaits final approval before being officially presented by President Javier Milei.
Q&A: Understanding Argentina’s Anti-Barrabravas Law
What are “barrabravas”?
Barrabravas are organized groups of soccer hooligans in Argentina, known for their violence, intimidation, and control over certain aspects of the sport, including ticket sales and other illicit activities. Think of them as the Argentinian equivalent of English football’s “firms,” but with a deeper entanglement in club operations.
Why is the government cracking down on them now?
The crackdown follows recent violent incidents, including clashes with political activists, highlighting the need to address the growing influence and dangerous activities of these groups. The incident involving the photographer injured by a tear gas canister was a major tipping point.
What are the key punishments proposed in the new law?
The new law proposes prison sentences of 3 to 20 years for barrabravas activities, similar to penalties for serious crimes. It will also target club officials who support these groups, and extend to illegal activities like “trapitos” (illegal parking) outside stadiums. The aim is to dismantle the financial structures that support barrabravas operations.
How will club officials be held accountable?
Club officials providing tickets to barrabravas will face penalties. This is a crucial element, as it aims to cut off a important revenue stream for these groups, weakening their power. It’s like going after the mafia’s enablers.
Can fans be banned from stadiums?
Yes, the law allows for administrative stadium bans on individuals facing legal proceedings under the new legislation. event organizers can also be sanctioned for failing to prevent weapons from entering venues. This is similar to how the UK deals with banning orders for football hooligans.
How does the “Anti-Mafia Law” relate to this?
The bill aims to treat barrabravas as organized criminal entities, using the “Anti-Mafia Law” as a model. This means applying similar legal principles to tackle their complex criminal activities and the structures that support them. This could lead to asset seizures and other measures used against organized crime.
When will this law take effect?
The bill is currently in draft form and awaits final approval before being officially presented by President Javier Milei. Stay tuned for updates!
Argentina’s new anti-violence law is a significant step towards cleaning up the sport. Stay informed on the progress of this landmark legislation and its potential impact on the future of Argentine soccer.
