The recent general strike, triggered by controversial public spending cuts, has halted transportation and disrupted daily life in Argentina, particularly in Buenos Aires.
General Strike Disrupts Transport Across Argentina Amid Austerity Measures
General Strike Disrupts Transport Across Argentina Amid Austerity Measures
A nationwide strike against budget cuts in Argentina has resulted in significant transport disruptions.
The capital's bustling Constitución railway station remained shut down on Thursday as the nationwide call for a general strike took effect, causing major transportation disruptions across the country. Domestic flights were grounded entirely, with airlines scrapping 258 flights — affecting an estimated 20,000 passengers. Train services and metro operations in Buenos Aires were also suspended, while some shops remained shuttered. However, bus services continued to operate, and international flights encountered only minor delays. This strike marks the third such interruption organized by powerful labor unions since President Javier Milei assumed office at the end of 2023.
Since taking the presidency, Milei has implemented stringent austerity measures in an effort to combat hyperinflation which once exceeded 200% but has notably decreased to about 60% per year. Although some economic improvements have been noted, the unions argue that these policies have disproportionately impacted marginalized groups, including pensioners and low-wage workers.
Among those affected is Horacio Bianchi, a retired educator from Buenos Aires, who expressed the sentiment that many individuals are "suffering as they don't have enough money to eat." He criticized the government's actions, claiming they exacerbated existing issues rather than alleviating them. The strike followed a peaceful protest aimed at raising awareness for pensioners experiencing significant cuts to their funds, a movement that has reportedly turned violent in recent weeks.
As the government confronts the fallout of these cuts, it eagerly anticipates a decision regarding a new $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as the country is already strapped with a $44 billion debt. In a show of support for the ongoing reforms, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to visit Buenos Aires on Monday.
Since taking the presidency, Milei has implemented stringent austerity measures in an effort to combat hyperinflation which once exceeded 200% but has notably decreased to about 60% per year. Although some economic improvements have been noted, the unions argue that these policies have disproportionately impacted marginalized groups, including pensioners and low-wage workers.
Among those affected is Horacio Bianchi, a retired educator from Buenos Aires, who expressed the sentiment that many individuals are "suffering as they don't have enough money to eat." He criticized the government's actions, claiming they exacerbated existing issues rather than alleviating them. The strike followed a peaceful protest aimed at raising awareness for pensioners experiencing significant cuts to their funds, a movement that has reportedly turned violent in recent weeks.
As the government confronts the fallout of these cuts, it eagerly anticipates a decision regarding a new $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as the country is already strapped with a $44 billion debt. In a show of support for the ongoing reforms, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to visit Buenos Aires on Monday.
