Protesters gathered at Peter Thiel's Buenos Aires residence amid concerns over his presence and a proposed legislative package by the Milei government. Critics allege the laws, including a "super RIGI" investment regime, could benefit tech billionaires like Thiel.
The situation highlights growing unease in Argentina regarding the influence of foreign tech billionaires and the potential impact of sweeping regulatory changes on the country's sovereignty and data privacy. It raises questions about the intersection of technology, libertarian ideals, and national governance.
Protests erupted outside Peter Thiel's mansion in Buenos Aires this week, fueled by concerns over the billionaire's presence in Argentina and a controversial legislative package proposed by President Javier Milei's government. Thiel purchased a $12 million residence in April and relocated his family to the country.
Lawmakers have raised questions about Thiel's activities and his access to the administration, particularly in light of the proposed reforms. A six-hour debate was held in the chamber of deputies regarding the new laws, with invitations extended to Thiel, Milei, and an intelligence official, none of whom appeared.
Critics, including Juan Marino, a member of the chamber of deputies, have labeled the proposed laws a "technofascist legislative package" that could benefit foreign tech billionaires. One key proposal, the "super RIGI," would establish an investment regime offering foreign companies minimal tax rates and a 30-year guarantee against regulatory changes, specifically targeting investments like AI data centers. Another failed proposal aimed to ease restrictions on foreign land ownership, while a decree would mandate the sharing of personal data on Argentinian citizens with state intelligence services.
While Thiel has not publicly advocated for these specific laws, his closed-door meetings with Milei and presidential advisors in the months following his move have drawn scrutiny. Some observers, like Cecilia Nicolini, who represents Argentina at the Mercosur regional parliament, view Argentina as a "laboratory" for techno-libertarian interests, with billionaires like Thiel potentially influencing reforms that align with their visions, such as "non-human corporations" operated by AI agents.
Questions have also been raised about potential undisclosed contracts between Palantir, a company co-founded by Thiel, and the Argentinian state, which have gone unanswered.