A general strike in Argentina has brought the country to a standstill, with domestic flights cancelled and trains and metro services suspended as unions protest against public spending cuts. The move has had a significant impact on daily life, with many struggling to access basic necessities.
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Transport Disrupted as General Strike Hits Argentina
A general strike has severely disrupted transport in Argentina, with all domestic flights cancelled and trains and metro services suspended in Buenos Aires and other parts of the country. The strike, which is the third called by Argentina’s powerful unions since President Javier Milei took office at the end of 2023, is against public spending cuts.
A general strike, also known as a nationwide strike or mass strike, is a form of protest where workers from various industries and sectors simultaneously stop working to bring attention to their demands.
This can include public sector employees, private sector workers, and even essential service providers like 'healthcare professionals' and transportation staff.
The goal of a general strike is to demonstrate the collective power of workers and put pressure on governments or employers to meet their demands.
Economic Austerity Measures
Milei has introduced tough austerity measures to tackle hyperinflation, which have worked so far, with inflation down from more than 200% to about 60% a year. However, the unions say the most vulnerable in society have been affected, including pensioners and low-paid workers. The president’s plan has included slashing subsidies for transport, fuel and energy, firing tens of thousands of public servants and closing government departments.
Economic austerity measures involve implementing policies to reduce government spending and debt.
These measures often include tax increases, public sector job cuts, and privatization of state-owned enterprises.
The goal is to balance budgets, stimulate economic growth, and ensure fiscal sustainability.
Historical examples include Greece's 2015 bailout package and the UK's 2010 austerity program under Prime Minister David Cameron.
Austerity measures can have mixed effects on economies, with some experiencing short-term growth while others face prolonged recession.
Impact on Daily Life
The strike has had a significant impact on daily life in Argentina. Many shops remained closed in the capital but bus drivers continued to work. ‘don’t have enough money to eat’ said Horacio Bianchi, a retired teacher living in Buenos Aires. He added that the government’s actions have worsened the problems for everyone.
Protests and Clashes
On Wednesday, workers joined a weekly protest staged by pensioners who have seen their pension funds slashed. The protests have ended in violence as sympathetic groups, such as football fans, clashed with police. However, on Wednesday, a peaceful march was held in support of pensioners, who have been affected by the cuts.
A pensioner is an individual who has retired from their primary occupation and receives a regular payment, known as a pension, in exchange for their past work.
This payment is typically funded by the government or employer and is designed to provide financial support during retirement.
In many countries, pensioners are entitled to benefits such as healthcare, social security, and tax breaks.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 5 people worldwide live on a pension, highlighting the importance of this demographic.
International Support
The US Treasury has expressed support for Milei’s reforms, saying he had ‘brought Argentina back from economic oblivion‘. The country awaits whether it will be granted a new $20bn loan from the International Monetary Fund.
