Workers strike across Argentina in protest of Milei’s Austerity measures

Workers across Argentina held a nationwide strike on Thursday, April 10. They protested President Javier Milei’s austerity program. This program has caused widespread discontent since he took office in December 2023.

The general strike was the third under Milei's administration. It brought much of the country to a standstill. Public transport services, including trains, taxis, and flights, were halted. Operations at port terminals also ceased. Essential services like banking and garbage collection faced severe disruptions.

President Milei is a self-described libertarian. He introduced radical economic reforms to address Argentina’s debt crisis. His measures include mass layoffs in the public sector and eliminating subsidies. He also stopped financing government spending through money printing. These actions have helped reduce inflation and balance the budget.

Despite these fiscal improvements, many Argentinians struggle with rising living costs. “People are unhappy because the money no longer lasts until the end of the month,” said Andrés Rodríguez from the CGT trade union federation.

Pensioners have been particularly affected by these reforms. Their benefits have not kept pace with inflation. About 70% of retirees receive only the minimum pension of around $320 per month. Meanwhile, average monthly living costs in Argentina are estimated at about $1,100.