Photo credit: www.bbc.com
Argentina Faces Disruption Amid General Strike Against Austerity Measures
A sweeping general strike in Argentina has led to significant disruptions across the country, particularly in the transportation sector. In a widespread response to cuts in public spending, all domestic flights have been cancelled, and train and metro services in Buenos Aires, as well as other regions, have been halted.
Despite the strike’s impact on domestic travel, many international flights are reported to be operating as scheduled, albeit with some delays. Additionally, while numerous shops in the capital remained shuttered, bus services continued to function, indicating varying degrees of participation in the strike.
This latest strike marks the third such action orchestrated by the powerful labor unions since President Javier Milei assumed office in late 2023. Since his inauguration, Milei has implemented stringent austerity measures aimed at curbing rampant hyperinflation, which reportedly peaked over 200%. Recent government data indicate that inflation has since decreased to approximately 60% annually. However, unions argue that these fiscal policies disproportionately impact the most vulnerable sectors of society, including pensioners and low-income workers.
As part of his austerity effort, Milei has drastically reduced subsidies for public transportation, fuel, and energy. The administration has also laid off tens of thousands of public workers and closed numerous government departments, actions that have fueled public discontent.
Horacio Bianchi, a retired teacher from Buenos Aires, expressed his frustrations to the Associated Press, stating that many are struggling to afford basic necessities. He voiced a growing sentiment among citizens that the government’s measures have exacerbated existing challenges rather than alleviating them.
On the day of the strike, participants joined ongoing protests that have historically been led by pensioners whose retirement benefits have been severely decreased. Recent weeks have seen these demonstrations escalate into clashes, with groups such as football fans joining the protests, leading to confrontations with law enforcement.
This wave of protest coincides with Argentina’s anticipation regarding a potential $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a crucial financial link given the country’s existing debt of $44 billion owed to the institution.
In light of these developments, the US Treasury has noted that President Milei has “brought Argentina back from economic oblivion,” a claim that underscores the mixed perceptions regarding his economic reforms. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to visit Buenos Aires on Monday to show support for the government’s initiatives.
Source
www.bbc.com