Argentina’s largest labor union, CGT, has announced a general strike for April 10 against President Milei’s austerity policies. The strike comes after violent clashes on March 12 and demands urgent pension increases and end to excessive policing. This action reflects mounting social unrest over Milei’s deregulation and spending cuts.
Argentina’s predominant labor union, the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), has scheduled a general strike on April 10, marking the third massive protest against President Javier Milei’s administration within a span of 15 months. CGT General Secretary Héctor Daer revealed on Thursday that this strike will comprise 36 hours of organized labor demonstrations, kicking off with protests on April 9 and culminating in a nationwide 24-hour work stoppage.
The union’s demands encompass immediate pension increases, the revival of stalled public infrastructure initiatives, enhanced protections for the manufacturing sector, and a cessation of excessive police actions against demonstrators. Historically affiliated with the center-left Peronist movement, the CGT has previously orchestrated national strikes; one in January opposed Milei’s extensive deregulation policies and drastic budget cuts, while another in May concentrated on safeguarding workers’ rights and wages.
The upcoming strike is a response to violent confrontations experienced on March 12, where police clashed with demonstrators opposing pension reductions. These events represent the most significant civil unrest under Milei’s government to date. What started as a peaceful weekly gathering of retirees transformed into a larger protest, involving football supporters, resulting in 45 injuries among 20 police officers and 25 civilians, along with over 120 arrests.
This escalation in social unrest arises as Milei’s administration pursues a new loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to manage the national debt. Although the government highlights its progress in reducing inflation—from 211% at the end of 2023 to 66% currently—critics contend that such achievements have come with significant social implications due to stringent austerity measures.
In conclusion, the CGT’s impending strike symbolizes a mounting backlash against President Javier Milei’s austerity policies, highlighting urgent demands from labor representatives for improved economic conditions. The forthcoming protests reflect deepening social unrest shaped by the government’s aggressive fiscal measures and increased tensions with citizens. As the situation unfolds, the implications of these demonstrations will be significant for Argentina’s political and economic landscape.
Original Source: al24news.com
