CGT Leads Major Rally in Argentina Against Milei's Proposed Labor Reforms

Thousands Protest Milei's Labor Bill in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina – On Thursday, December 18, 2025, Argentina's largest labor federation, the Confederación General del Trabajo (CGT), led a substantial rally in central Buenos Aires, drawing thousands of demonstrators to the iconic Plaza de Mayo, in front of the Casa Rosada. The protest was a direct response to President Javier Milei's proposed labor reform bill, which unions argue will significantly diminish workers' rights and protections.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Labor Reforms

President Milei's administration has put forward a comprehensive labor reform package, often referred to within a broader 'Decree of Necessity and Urgency' (DNU) and the 'Omnibus Law,' aimed at modernizing Argentina's labor market and stimulating formal employment. Key aspects of the bill that have drawn strong opposition include:

• Restrictions on the right to strike and collective bargaining.
• Reduced redundancy payouts and modifications to the severance pay system.
• Provisions allowing for a 12-hour working day under certain conditions.
• Increased flexibility for employers regarding working hours and vacation arrangements.
• Requirements for unions to obtain employer approval for workplace assemblies.
• Classification of the occupation or blockage of a worksite as a 'very serious' violation.
• Extension of the trial period for employment contracts.
• Elimination of penalties for past non-compliance in employment registration.

The government contends that these reforms are essential to energize the labor market, reduce excessive bureaucracy, and formalize the nearly 40 percent of the Argentine workforce currently in the informal economy. Milei has stated that the current contractual system is 'anachronistic' and that the reforms aim to 'modernise a contractual framework over 70 years old.'

CGT's Opposition and Demands

The CGT and allied labor organizations have vehemently rejected the proposed changes, asserting that they constitute an 'all-out assault on workers and unions.' Leaders of the CGT argue that the bill would shift the balance of power significantly to the detriment of workers, seeking 'to weaken workers' collective strength to defend themselves, encourage a 'everyone for themselves' mentality and level everything downwards.' During the rally, union representatives emphasized, 'We don't want fewer rights, we want more work, more dignity.' They have also called the DNU 'vitiated of origin' for bypassing Congress and infringing upon labor rights.

The CGT has called for a 'sane and consolidated negotiation environment' with the government, stressing the need to discuss how to build competitiveness, productive development, and protect national industry. Other unions, including the CTA-T and CTA-A, and social organizations, have joined the protests, with some also engaging in industrial action such as rotating stoppages by air traffic controllers.

Legislative Context and Government Stance

The labor reform bill began debate in a Senate committee on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, with the government pushing for a fast-track process. President Milei's administration maintains that the current labor legislation 'stifles' hiring and that the reforms are necessary to address the country's economic challenges, including high inflation and a significant informal sector. Despite union opposition, the government insists it is not 'going after anyone's rights' but rather seeking to improve conditions for businesses and encourage formal employment.