Women Demand Justice for Livestreamed Femicide Victims in Argentina

Thousands March for Justice in Argentina as Livestreamed Femicide Sparks Outrage BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - SEPTEMBER 28, 2025 - Thousands of protesters gathered in the capital city on Saturday to demand justice for three young women whose brutal murders were broadcast live on social media. The demonstration was a powerful display of solidarity and outrage, with many calling for an end to femicide and greater protection for women. The victims, Morena Verdi, 20, Brenda Del Castillo, 15, and Lara Gutierrez, 15, were cousins who were tortured and murdered in a case that has shocked the nation. Their bodies were found buried in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires five days after their disappearance. "We must protect women more than ever," said Leonel Del Castillo, Brenda's father, at the protest. "This is not just about my daughter; it's about all women who are suffering from violence and abuse." The protesters held signs with the names and pictures of the victims, as well as messages condemning the perpetrators. One sign read "It was a narco-femicide!" highlighting the connection between organized crime and gender-based violence. Antonio Del Castillo, grandfather of the murdered cousins, spoke out against the brutality of the crimes. "You wouldn't do what they did to them to an animal," he said. "This is a cry for justice, not just for my granddaughters but for all women who are suffering in silence." The demonstration was part of a growing movement in Argentina to address femicide and gender-based violence. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INDEC), 1,300 women were murdered in Argentina between 2015 and 2020. The case has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from human rights groups and government officials. President Alberto Fernández announced an investigation into the murders and promised to take action to prevent similar crimes in the future. The protest was a powerful reminder of the need for greater protection and support for women who are victims of violence. As one protester said, "We will not be silenced; we will not be ignored. We demand justice for our sisters, mothers, and daughters." Background: Femicide is a growing concern globally, with thousands of women murdered every year. Argentina has seen a significant increase in femicide cases in recent years, with many attributing the rise to societal attitudes towards women and lack of effective policies to prevent violence. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert on gender-based violence, noted that "femicide is not just a crime; it's a symptom of a deeper societal problem. We need to address the root causes of violence against women and work towards creating a culture of respect and equality." The demonstration was a powerful display of solidarity and outrage, with many calling for an end to femicide and greater protection for women. Current Status: The investigation into the murders is ongoing, with authorities working to identify those responsible. The government has announced plans to implement new policies to prevent similar crimes in the future, including increased funding for women's shelters and support services. As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, one thing is clear: the fight for justice and equality will not be silenced. *Reporting by Dw.*