Argentina’s largest union, CGT, has announced a general strike on April 10 in response to police violence during a pensioners’ protest, during which 45 were injured. Union leader Hector Daer stated demands include immediate pension increases and the restoration of public works. This strike marks the third since President Milei’s administration began austerity measures, severely impacting retirees’ living standards.
On March 21, 2025, Argentina’s largest trade union, the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), announced a general strike scheduled for April 10. This decision was made in response to a police crackdown during a recent protest advocating for pensioners’ rights, which resulted in 45 injuries among demonstrators. Hector Daer, the union’s general secretary, stated that the strike would also demand an urgent increase in pensions and an end to the freeze on public works imposed by President Javier Milei.
During a press conference, Daer emphasized, “From midnight on the 10th, a 24-hour strike.” This upcoming protest marks the third general strike since President Milei took office in December 2023, where he notably used a chainsaw as a symbol for his proposed budget cuts and measures to curb inflation.
The severe austerity policies enforced by Milei have adversely affected pensioners, plunging Argentina into a prolonged recession throughout 2024, despite a notable reduction in inflation rates. Pension raises have not kept pace with inflation, severely diminishing the living standards of retirees. The situation has been exacerbated by the government’s elimination of price controls on essential medicines.
Recent protests saw football fans joining pensioners in a demonstration outside parliament, where violent clashes with the police erupted, leading to over 120 arrests. Tragically, a photojournalist sustained critical injuries during the events. The government has publicly referred to the protestors as “hooligans” and accused them of engaging in “sedition.”
The General Confederation of Labor’s call for a general strike on April 10 underscores the escalating tensions between the Argentine government and its citizens, particularly pensioners who have been adversely affected by austerity measures. The outcome of this strike could be pivotal in shaping public sentiment and government policies in the face of ongoing economic challenges.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
