The Vice President Victoria Villarruel chaired the event on Tuesday for the International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Terrorism held in the Senate, where she called for the imprisonment of former members of the Montoneros guerrilla group for their violent actions in Argentina. This statement aligns with the Re-assessment of the libertarian government’s stance on human rights, coinciding with a visit from a group of pro-government legislators to known terrorists.
The Vice President emphasized that there should be a re-opening of cases involving victims of terrorism, asserting, “Argentina deserves to move beyond the past, but it must do so with justice.” She further stated, “Argentina deserves to be a land of unity and peace as envisioned by our heroes, but that can only happen with justice.”
The Senate president remarked that the country “deserves not to be a haven of impunity, and to achieve this, we need to build upon the foundations established by justice.”
Authoritarians do not appreciate this.
The practice of professional and critical journalism is a cornerstone of democracy. This is why it bothers those who consider themselves the arbiters of truth.
“Therefore, we will re-examine all the cases of terrorism victims so that justice can fulfill its obligations, which it should have done over 20 years ago,” she announced.
In this context, she criticized the Montoneros in a speech focused on the concept of Justice, yet constrained by a controversial and unilateral perspective on the armed conflicts of the 1970s. “I was initially demonized and rejected, but for Argentina, our esteemed homeland, to experience its dawn and rebirth with justice, it must rely solely on this value. For that reason, all Montoneros must be imprisoned for their acts of violence against our Nation,” said the running mate of Javier Milei.
Victoria Villarruel: “In the 70s, terrorism was fought, but where are those who fought it? In prison.”
Victoria Villarruel’s activism for “the other memory”
Villarruel established the Center for Legal Studies on Terrorism and its Victims in 2006 (CELTYV), an organization through which she explored the concept of “the other memory,” which offers an alternative interpretation of events surrounding the democratic restoration in 1983 that led to the Trial of the Military Juntas, aimed at the leaders of Montoneros and the ERP, as well as the eventual annulment of the “impunity laws,” permitting the reopening of cases of crimes against humanity in the 2000s.
Basing her controversial rhetoric on this, the current vice president has intensified her discourse since assuming office as a deputy in 2021, which was also reflected in an event in the Buenos Aires Legislature to honor “the other victims.”
The historic trial of the Juntas commenced on April 22, 1985.
In this manner, she subtly introduced into the debate a comparison between the fatalities resulting from guerrilla attacks and the subsequent illegal repression (carried out by the state’s logistical and repressive apparatus), which contradicts the differentiation maintained by Justice on this matter.
Just days before March 24, the day dedicated to commemorating Truth and Justice, the vice president provocatively reiterated her unique interpretation of the political violence of the 1970s, stating in a report: “In the 70s, terrorism was fought, but where are those who fought it? In prison.”.
DS/ca
Victoria Villarruel Leads Event for International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Terrorism
On Tuesday, Victoria Villarruel, the Vice President of Argentina, took a prominent role in the solemn observance of the International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Terrorism held in the Argentine Senate. This significant event was marked by Villarruel’s impassioned call for justice concerning the atrocities committed by the Montoneros guerrilla group, demanding their imprisonment for their roles in the violence that has stained Argentine history.
Justice Over Impunity
During her address, Villarruel emphasized the necessity for Argentina to confront its past without succumbing to a culture of impunity. She stated firmly, “Argentina deserves to leave the past behind, but it must do so with justice.” Her poignant remarks highlight a growing sentiment within certain political factions that urge for a renewed focus on accountability and historical reevaluation.
The Vice President underscored the importance of reopening cases related to victims of terrorism, reinforcing her stance by asserting, “Therefore, we will reopen all the cases of victims of terrorism so that justice can do what it should have done more than 20 years ago.” This call aligns with her broader vision of fostering unity and peace within the nation while firmly rooting this vision in the pursuit of justice.
Revisiting Historical Context
Villarruel’s comments come against the backdrop of a controversial reinterpretation of the armed conflict in Argentina during the 1970s. She noted, “In the 70s, terrorism was fought, but where are those who fought it? In prison.” This statement has reignited debates surrounding the narratives of the past, particularly the actions and motives of various factions involved in the historical violence.
Her stance is part of a larger discourse as Argentina reflects on its history of conflict, with growing calls for recognition and justice for all affected parties.
Victoria Villarruel’s Advocacy for “the Other Memory”
Victoria Villarruel, an advocate for what she terms “the other memory,” founded the Center for Legal Studies on Terrorism and its Victims (CELTYV) in 2006. This institution serves as a platform from which she has explored alternative narratives surrounding the events that occurred during Argentina’s Transition to Democracy, especially following the military dictatorship that ended in 1983.
Her work has highlighted the experiences of victims of terrorism from different perspectives, advocating for their acknowledgment in the historical discourse. Villarruel’s articulation of “the other memory” aims to challenge the dominant narratives established during the post-dictatorship era, which focused primarily on the crimes of the state apparatus.
A Historical Perspective
The collective memory of Argentina’s turbulent history was significantly shaped by the trials of military leaders, which began with the Trial of the Military Juntas in 1985. This historic case sought accountability for the many human rights violations committed during the dictatorship. Villarruel’s rise in politics has brought renewed attention to these historical events, with a focus not only on state-sponsored violence but on all acts of terror that contributed to the national tragedy.
By attempting to reopen old cases of violence attributed to the Montoneros and other guerrilla groups, Villarruel is seeking to redefine the conversation around accountability and historical justice. This initiative has received both support and criticism, reflecting the deep divides that persist in Argentine society regarding its past.
Comparison of Deaths: Guerrilla Attacks vs. State Repression
Villarruel’s recent statements have sparked debates about her comparison between the casualties of guerrilla violence and the victims of state repression. Critics argue that this perspective undermines the comprehensive understanding of Argentina’s history, which has been meticulously documented by human rights organizations.
Despite these critiques, Villarruel’s advocacy continues to resonate with a significant portion of the electorate who feel that historical narratives have overlooked the complexity of the nation’s experience with violence and terrorism.
Government Responses and Legislative Context
Villarruel’s statements coincide with a shift in governmental attitudes towards historical accountability, with various pro-government legislators showing support for her vision. They assert that to build a just society, Argentina must confront past injustices without bias and assure that all perpetrators, irrespective of their political affiliation during the violent years, are held accountable.
This political movement has brought forth discussions regarding the applicability of laws, the role of memory in legislation, and the power dynamics involved in historical narrative framing.
Public Reactions and Future Implications
The reactions to Villarruel’s calls for justice have been polarized. Supporters view her insistence on rectifying historical narratives as a necessary step towards national reconciliation and healing. In contrast, critics warn that this may further entrench divisions in a society that is still grappling with the scars of past conflicts.
As Argentina moves forward, the implications of Villarruel’s advocacy could shape the socio-political landscape significantly, influencing everything from legislative priorities to educational curricula.
Practical Implications for Argentina’s Sociopolitical Climate
- Increased Attention to Historical Reexamination: The reopening of cases could spark renewed discussions and investigations into past crimes, potentially leading to a healing process for victims and their families.
- Potential for Legislative Reforms: Villarruel’s advocacy may influence the creation of new laws focused on accountability and historical memory.
- Impact on Public Discourse: The controversy surrounding her comments may stimulate broader societal debates about memory, justice, and the ethical responsibilities of governments to their citizens.
The Role of Journalism in Documenting History
In conjunction with political movements, professional journalism plays a crucial role in documenting and interpreting historical events and current discourses. Journalists are tasked with scrutinizing both governmental actions and public narratives, ensuring that accurate historical context is provided to society.
This commitment to critical journalism is vital in a democracy, as it fosters an informed citizenry capable of engaging with its past and shaping its future. As Villarruel stated, “The practice of professional and critical journalism is a fundamental pillar of democracy.”
In conclusion, as discussions about Argentina’s history of terrorism evolve, the interplay between her statements, public perception, and judicial consequences will be pivotal in framing the nation’s journey toward reconciliation and historical accountability.
