On Tuesday, April 15, the resolution 347/2025 of the Ministry of Defense was announced, which launches the "Operation President Julio Argentino Roca" until December 15 of this year to reinforce security in the northern and northeastern borders. The Free Chair "Knowledge, Beliefs, and Struggles of Indigenous Peoples" expresses its concern about deploying the Armed Forces in areas where indigenous communities reside, being frequently criminalized.
The name of the operation causes outrage, as it bears the name of a genocidal figure like Julio Argentino Roca, responsible for a military campaign that resulted in thousands of disappeared persons, perpetrating state terrorism against indigenous peoples. The Chair denounces the current government's attitude towards the pre-existing nations in Argentina and the repeal of the Indigenous Territorial Emergency Law which endangered many communities.
The Free Chair "Knowledge, Beliefs, and Struggles of Indigenous Peoples" of the National University of Rosario expresses its concern over the "Operation" that evokes violent events from the past and mourns the death of workers like Fernando Gómez in similar operations. Resolution 347/2025 orders the deployment of armed forces in the Northern and Northeastern Border Security Zone, between April and December 2025, coordinated by the Ministries of Defense and Security.
On the 146th anniversary of the campaign led by Roca, society rejects remembering that dark chapter of Argentine history and is committed to not allowing new abuses against indigenous communities. The plan generates tension due to the national defense excuse to operate in critical areas, while the commemoration of a genocidal figure is questioned. The Chair warns about the importance of not repeating acts of violence and repression against indigenous peoples.
The "Operation Roca" project involves the deployment of means and personnel in the mentioned areas, with specific directives for the Armed Forces and training activities. The approval of the Rules of Engagement marks a new chapter in a conflict that continues to divide opinions and generate uncertainty regarding the security policies implemented in the country.
