The Ministry of Defense of Argentina has implemented a new policy strictly prohibiting the use of gender-neutral or inclusive language within the Armed Forces and its decentralized entities. This decision, announced late Friday, has been officially endorsed by Minister Luis Petri. The move aligns with existing national laws and military regulations, referencing the National Constitution, National Defense Law No. 23.554, and specific military dictionaries and glossaries as its foundation.
Officials have issued a stern warning to military personnel regarding the adherence to traditional language norms, specifically targeting the use of gender-neutral or feminized military ranks such as «generala» for general, «sargenta» for sergeant, and similar adaptations. The ministry’s statement highlighted that non-compliance with these language standards could result in disciplinary action, emphasizing the accountability of individuals within their respective units.
While the exact nature of potential sanctions remains unspecified, the directive went into effect immediately following its signing last Friday, suggesting that repercussions for violations may soon commence.
In response to this significant shift in policy, the Defense Ministry has committed to launching an extensive informational campaign aimed at educating military staff on the language changes. This initiative includes training programs designed to facilitate the seamless integration of the revised linguistic code, ensuring effective implementation across all levels of the military.
This policy is part of a broader strategic plan aimed at restructuring the Armed Forces, as stated by the ministry leadership. This plan underscores the importance of adhering to a prescribed military vocabulary, framing the exclusion of inclusive language as a measure to enhance military discipline and coherence.
