Is Argentina One Of The Safest Latin American Countries?

Safety is one of the most important factors when considering a place to visit or live. Latin America is often dismissed as one of the least safe regions in the world, but countries like Argentina prove this narrative wrong.

With its rich European heritage, stunning natural beauty, and growing safety reputation under Javier Milei’s leadership, Argentina is great for travellers and expats seeking security in the region. Milei has chosen a zero-tolerance policy against delinquents, claiming that ‘what goes around comes around.’

With Milei almost one year into his presidential term, the question can be asked whether Argentina is safe. In this article, we’ll find out if Milei has made the country safer and, most importantly, whether it can be a viable Plan-B destination.

SAFETY IN LATIN AMERICA

Latin America is a region of contrasts. Popular for its lively cultures and beautiful landscapes, certain countries struggle with political instability and high crime rates. Countries like Venezuela and Honduras face issues like violence, corruption, and economic hardships that discourage foreign investment and economic growth. 

Safety is necessary for countries to prosper and for individuals to live and work. Argentina stands out as an exemplary nation amidst the challenges of the region. Although it has grappled with economic and social struggles due to socialism and state intervention, recent reforms, including Milei’s fight against crime and corruption, see the country reaching a turning point. Argentina is well on its way to ensuring its residents' and visitors' safety and stability.

Buenos Aires, the Paris of the South, offers European charm and improved safety, with crime rates dropping and hotspots like Palermo boasting enhanced police presence

WHY ARGENTINA IS GAINING RECOGNITION AMONG THE SAFEST LATIN AMERICAN COUNTRIES

Argentina’s appeal to tourists is undeniable. Destinations like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Patagonia are beautiful and safe for visitors. 

• Buenos Aires: Some call Argentina's capital the Paris of the South, and for good reason. With its European-style architecture and animated cultural scene, Buenos Aires is safe to visit. Tourist hotspots like Palermo often have an enhanced police presence to minimize crime.

• Patagonia: This remote region, focused chiefly on eco-tourism, is safe to explore. You’ll enjoy stunning landscapes and fresh air while engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and climbing. 

• Mendoza: Like neighbouring Uruguay, Argentina also produces world-class wine. Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine industry, and its sunny climate makes it a great spot for outdoor leisure. Most visitors claim to feel safe here. 

On a national level, violent crimes, such as homicides, remain lower than the regional average, at about 4 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, while the crime rate has been dropping consistently almost every year since 2013. Ever since Milei became president, homicides in more conflictive areas like Rosario have fallen by 72%, showcasing notable improvements in safety. 

BETTER LAW ENFORCEMENT, REDUCED STATE INTERVENTION 

Milei’s government has prioritized law enforcement, claiming that victims should be protected and criminals punished. Moreover, according to Statista, Argentina’s crime rates are lower than those of other countries in the region. While petty crime might still occur in crowded areas, violent crime is an exception rather than the rule. 

Argentina’s improvements in safety are not just a byproduct of law enforcement but also the dismantling of bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption, thereby contributing to stability. Milei has committed to transparency and accountability, as well as to reducing inflation and the public deficit. 

This progress, though, is not solely due to Milei’s non-interventionist government. Reduced state intervention in the economy helps individuals and businesses to innovate and create wealth, encouraging economic growth. People with access to jobs, entrepreneurial opportunities, and financial stability are less likely to resort to crime. 

Milei’s reforms aim to create an environment where individuals and businesses can thrive. When economic prospects improve, so does social cohesion, which reduces the desperation that typically causes criminal behaviour. 

Argentina shows progress but remains in transition. Deep reforms take time, so proceed cautiously. For immediate relocation, established options like Panama may be more practical

ARGENTINA AS A PLAN-B DESTINATION: TOO EARLY TO COMMIT

While Argentina’s progress is undeniable, there’s still a long way to go. Argentina remains in a transitional phase, especially economically. Milei himself admits that the country needs to undergo deep reforms that could take years, and challenges such as controlling inflation and strengthening the Argentinian Peso cannot be addressed overnight. 

Argentina is progressing but is still far from the ideal Plan-B destination, let alone the best country to relocate to. Keep an eye on how everything unfolds, but proceed cautiously before fully committing to Argentina. If you’re looking for a more immediate place to relocate, countries like Panama are well-established and might be more practical: regulations are already business-friendly, and taxes are lower. 

Argentina is a safe and appealing destination for tourists, with the bustling streets of Buenos Aires and the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. It’s worth a visit, but carefully consider before making it your new home

CONCLUSION: ARGENTINA’S BRIGHT FUTURE

Argentina is a prime example of safety in Latin America and worldwide, especially under Milei’s presidency. The zero-tolerance policy against criminals will give visitors and residents peace of mind, as committing crimes leads to severe consequences. 

For tourists, Argentina offers a safe and enriching experience, whether you want to enjoy the busy streets of Buenos Aires or the natural landscapes of Patagonia. I’d encourage you to visit this beautiful country but think carefully before making it your new home. Not even Milei can solve the deep-rooted economic problems simply by snapping his fingers. If you’re looking for a solid Plan-B but don’t know where to start, subscribe to our newsletter and download your free special report, Plan-B Residencies & Instant Citizenships.