Argentina’s UNR apologizes after Milei‑charged documentary on Palestine sparks academic‑freedom dispute

The documentary "La Gran Palestina" was screened at the Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR) without institutional authorization. President Javier Milei denounced the event as “terrorist propaganda,” prompting the Ministry of Capital Human to demand an explanation and warn of administrative sanctions. Rector Franco Bartolacci issued a letter of apology to the Argentine Jewish community, acknowledged the lack of official approval, and announced an internal investigation and disciplinary measures.

In response, the teachers’ union COAD condemned the university’s investigation, warning that it threatens academic freedom and could create a “police of thought.” The film, directed by Mexican filmmaker Rafael Rangel, is part of a trilogy on the Gaza conflict. UNR pledged that similar screenings will not be repeated and that responsible parties will be identified.

The controversy highlights tensions between the government’s hard‑line stance on campus speech and defenses of pluralism within Argentina’s public universities.