Argentina’s president Javier Milei given Italian citizenship, sparking outrage
GuardianDEC 23 2024
Italy Grants Citizenship to Argentine President Javier Milei
Above: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomes Argentina's Pres. Javier Milei at Palazzo Chigi, on Dec. 13, 2024 in Rome. Image copyright: Antonio Masiello/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Based on his Italian ancestry, with three grandparents of Italian origin, Argentina's Pres. Javier Milei received Italian citizenship through a fast-track procedure during his visit to Rome on Friday.
The citizenship was granted during Milei's meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, their sixth in just over a year. The Argentine leader is in Rome to attend Meloni's Brothers of Italy party's annual festival on Saturday.
Milei's Italian grandparents emigrated to Argentina in the early 20th century, with the president stating a few months ago that he was "75% Italian." According to the Italian news agency ANSA, Milei's sister Karina was also granted Italian citizenship.
The Spin
Narrative A
The expedited citizenship process for Milei represents intolerable discrimination against countless young people who have lived, studied, and worked in Italy for years without receiving the same treatment. This move demonstrates a clear double standard in the application of citizenship laws.
Narrative B
The grant of citizenship is not only justified given Milei's ancestry but will enhance diplomatic and economic ties between Italy and Argentina. By acknowledging his heritage, Milei strengthens international relationships crucial for Argentina's economic ambitions, especially with Italy as a key partner amidst uncertainties with the U.S.
Metaculus Prediction
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