National Strike Paralyzes Public Services
On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Argentina experienced a significant disruption to public services as the Association of State Workers (ATE) spearheaded a national strike. The industrial action was called to vehemently protest the government's proposed public workforce job cuts and comprehensive labor reforms. Union sources reported a substantial adherence, with more than 90 percent of state workers participating in the stoppage.
The strike led to widespread demonstrations across Argentina, impacting various cities. In the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area, workers marched towards the National Congress, while protests also unfolded in key urban centers such as Cordoba, Rosario, and La Plata. The government, led by President Javier Milei, responded by announcing that it would deduct a day's pay from the salaries of employees who joined the strike.
Union Demands and Government Policies
The core grievances driving the ATE strike revolve around the government's economic policies, particularly a proposed 10 percent cut in the state workforce and a controversial labor reform bill. Rodolfo Aguiar, Secretary-General of ATE, stated that the union's actions aim to 'stop an adjustment that cracks the whole social and productive fabric' and resist the 'Libertarian Government's adjustments'. He further warned that the proposed labor changes are 'regressive' and could result in layoffs, reduced wages, longer workdays, and obstacles to union activity.
In addition to opposing the reforms, ATE has demanded the reopening of negotiations for new collective bargaining agreements and an emergency wage increase for public sector employees. The union also seeks the reinstatement of dismissed workers and the renewal of expiring labor contracts.
Context of Milei's Economic Overhaul
The strike unfolds within the broader context of President Javier Milei's ambitious economic overhaul, initiated upon his assumption of office in December 2023. His administration has implemented a series of austerity measures, including significant spending cuts, deregulation, and efforts to reduce the size of the federal bureaucracy. These policies, aimed at addressing Argentina's long-standing economic challenges, have faced considerable resistance from various labor unions and social organizations.
The government's proposed labor reform, which was expected to be sent to Congress, seeks to amend existing labor laws. Critics, including ATE, argue that these amendments are designed to weaken workers' rights and facilitate further state retrenchment. The ongoing conflict highlights the deep divisions within Argentina regarding the direction of the country's economic future.
7 Comments
Manolo Noriega
While austerity measures are often needed for economic stability, the human cost of job cuts shouldn't be ignored. A balance must be found between fiscal responsibility and social welfare.
Fuerza
The strike highlights the deep divisions in Argentina regarding economic policy. While the government aims for long-term growth, the immediate impact on public sector families is severe, making compromise crucial for national unity.
Ongania
Milei's government faces immense pressure to fix the economy, which explains the drastic reforms. However, the unions' concerns about weakening workers' rights are legitimate and deserve careful consideration rather than dismissal.
Manolo Noriega
Public sector workers need to accept reality. No more free rides.
Fuerza
On one hand, the government is trying to curb excessive spending that has plagued Argentina for years. On the other hand, cutting public services and jobs too drastically can lead to social unrest and a decline in essential public provisions.
Leonardo
This strike only hurts the economy. Time for real change.
Raphael
Milei's cuts are destroying livelihoods. This strike is essential.