Argentina debates repeal of decree limiting presidential control over judges

Lawyer and transparency expert Natalia Volosin warned that Argentina’s democracy is under threat after the government moved to fully revoke Decree 222 of 2003, a measure that had limited presidential power and allowed citizen participation in the selection of judges. She described the decree’s removal as a “complete dismantling” of one of the most important democratic safeguards introduced during the Kirchner administration, arguing that it erodes institutional checks and deepens the crisis of constitutional democracy in the country.

Volosin highlighted the broader pattern of weakening judicial oversight, noting that the current administration’s actions mirror past eras of authoritarian‑leaning governance. She expressed concern that the loss of popular input in judicial appointments could further concentrate power in the executive, jeopardising the rule of law and citizen control over the judiciary.