Argentina Unions Rally Against Milei’s Labor Reform as Congress Debates Key Bill

Argentina’s main labor federation led a massive nationwide protest on Thursday against a controversial labor reform bill proposed by President Javier Milei, intensifying tensions as lawmakers begin debating the legislation in Congress. The demonstration, organized by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), brought downtown Buenos Aires to a standstill and was echoed by rallies and strikes in several other cities across the country.

The labor reform bill, promoted by Milei’s right-wing libertarian government, aims to overhaul Argentina’s labor laws by limiting the right to strike, changing severance pay rules, and allowing employers greater flexibility over working hours and vacations. The government argues the reforms are essential to boost formal employment, cut labor costs, and reduce bureaucracy in an economy struggling with inflation and low growth.

Unions strongly oppose the proposal, warning that it would roll back decades of worker protections. One of the most contentious provisions would require unions to obtain employer authorization to hold workplace assemblies, while another would expand the list of sectors required to maintain minimum service levels during strikes. Labor leaders argue these measures weaken collective bargaining power and restrict fundamental labor rights.

“We don’t want fewer rights, we want more work, more dignity,” said Jorge Sola, a senior CGT leader, addressing protesters during the demonstration. Adding to the pressure, Argentina’s oilseed workers announced a 24-hour strike this week in direct opposition to the proposed reforms.

The protests come as Argentina’s newly elected Congress enters a period of special legislative sessions. Milei’s party, La Libertad Avanza, strengthened its position following October’s midterm elections, becoming the largest minority bloc in the lower house and expanding its presence in the Senate. This shift has increased the government’s chances of advancing its reform agenda, despite firm resistance from the center-left Peronist opposition.

While the bill is expected to undergo modifications during congressional debate, analysts believe some version of the labor reform is likely to pass. The outcome could mark a turning point for Argentina’s labor market, with significant implications for workers, unions, and employers alike.