After the request for the plaque of the disappeared at the Casa Argentina, an open letter is sent to the International University City of Paris
An open letter has been sent to the International University City of Paris following a request for the restoration of a plaque honoring the victims of Argentina's state terrorism, accusing the institution's director of allowing far-right political activities.
Following a demand for the restoration of a plaque honoring the 30,000 disappeared and victims of state terrorism from 1974 to 1983, an open letter has been forwarded to the directors and administrators of the International University City of Paris (CIUP). This plaque was initially placed at the Casa de la Argentina in Paris in 2022. The current director of CIUP, Santiago Muzio, is under scrutiny as the letter accuses him of utilizing the institution for meetings of European extreme right political groups while rejecting proposals that focus on cultural and educational initiatives.
The letter highlights concerns over the environment fostered in the CIUP, where over forty houses representing various countries accommodate thousands of students, researchers, and artists annually. The signatories of the letter advocate for the restoration of the commemorative plaque, asserting that it is not only a matter of remembrance for the victims of Argentina's dark past but also for upholding human rights and cultural dignity in academic spaces.
Accusations against Santiago Muzio suggest a troubling shift in the leadership’s priorities at the International University City, indicating a possible alignment with extremist political ideologies that could undermine the educational and cultural exchange purpose of the institution. These developments illustrate the ongoing legacy of Argentina's past dictatorship and the continuous efforts by activists to ensure that the memory of the victims is honored and not forgotten, both in Argentina and abroad.