Argentina’s trains and subways were disrupted, flights grounded, grain shipments halted, deliveries stopped, and banks closed as unions led a general strike against President Javier Milei’s austerity measures.
The 24-hour stoppage, which began on Wednesday night, aimed to bring the country to a standstill. The main union confederation, CGT, called for fair collective bargaining, solidarity with retirees, and an end to poverty and crisis. However, the strike received lukewarm support from other unions, including the bus workers’ union, which opted out due to ongoing wage negotiations.
The strike’s impact on the economy was significant, estimated at $880 million. Many public hospitals were only treating emergency cases, while airports were emptied, and taxis continued to operate despite union support.
President Milei remains unfazed by the strike, focusing instead on positive economic developments, such as an upcoming visit from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The government’s austerity measures have been criticized for causing layoffs, rising poverty rates, and international debts. The IMF’s $20 billion bailout package has been announced, which the government desperately needs to meet debt repayments.
Despite growing tensions between the government and unions, President Milei appears committed to his economic reform efforts, cheered by some global leaders, including former US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/argentina-protest-strike-workers-unions-mile-austerity-f60c902517ea5baecd57df2147df6428