The capital's central Constitución railway station was closed on Thursday as Argentina experienced a general strike focused on public spending cuts. The protest resulted in a total halt of domestic flights, and both train and metro services were suspended throughout Buenos Aires and beyond, causing substantial travel disruptions. Although many shops in the capital were shuttered, bus drivers chose to continue their operations, and international flights faced only minor delays. This marked the third general strike orchestrated by the country's influential unions since President Javier Milei ascended to the presidency at the end of 2023.
Aerolíneas Argentinas, the national airline, reported that it had cancelled 258 flights, impacting around 20,000 passengers due to the unrest. In response to rampant hyperinflation, President Milei has implemented stringent austerity measures, which, according to him, have had some success in curbing inflation rates from over 200% to around 60% annually. Despite these claims, trade unions argue that the harsh measures disproportionately affect Argentina's most vulnerable populations, including pensioners and low-wage earners.
Milei's reforms include reducing subsidies for public transport, energy, and fuel, alongside significant layoffs of public servants and the closure of several government departments. Horacio Bianchi, a retired teacher from Buenos Aires, voiced his concerns, stating that many residents are struggling to afford basic necessities. Statements from protestors emphasize that government efforts have exacerbated their circumstances.
The strike followed a peaceful rally the previous day in support of pensioners hit hard by funding cuts, many of whom had their financial futures compromised, sparking protests that have occasionally turned violent as police confront sympathetic onlookers, including football fans.
Looking forward, the Argentine government is awaiting news on a potential $20 billion (£15.4 billion) loan from the International Monetary Fund, amidst an existing debt of $44 billion owed to the lender. While the US Treasury has lauded Milei for steering Argentina away from economic disaster, the upcoming visit from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlights ongoing tensions surrounding economic reform and societal well-being.
Aerolíneas Argentinas, the national airline, reported that it had cancelled 258 flights, impacting around 20,000 passengers due to the unrest. In response to rampant hyperinflation, President Milei has implemented stringent austerity measures, which, according to him, have had some success in curbing inflation rates from over 200% to around 60% annually. Despite these claims, trade unions argue that the harsh measures disproportionately affect Argentina's most vulnerable populations, including pensioners and low-wage earners.
Milei's reforms include reducing subsidies for public transport, energy, and fuel, alongside significant layoffs of public servants and the closure of several government departments. Horacio Bianchi, a retired teacher from Buenos Aires, voiced his concerns, stating that many residents are struggling to afford basic necessities. Statements from protestors emphasize that government efforts have exacerbated their circumstances.
The strike followed a peaceful rally the previous day in support of pensioners hit hard by funding cuts, many of whom had their financial futures compromised, sparking protests that have occasionally turned violent as police confront sympathetic onlookers, including football fans.
Looking forward, the Argentine government is awaiting news on a potential $20 billion (£15.4 billion) loan from the International Monetary Fund, amidst an existing debt of $44 billion owed to the lender. While the US Treasury has lauded Milei for steering Argentina away from economic disaster, the upcoming visit from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlights ongoing tensions surrounding economic reform and societal well-being.
