General Strike Disrupts Transport in Argentina Amid Austerity Measures

Amid widespread protests against austerity measures, a general strike in Argentina has halted numerous transport services, drawing attention to escalating economic distress among citizens.

A general strike against austerity measures in Argentina has critically impacted transportation across the nation. With domestic flights grounded and public transport in Buenos Aires including trains and metro services suspended, the streets of the capital saw shops shuttered while bus services remained operational. Major airline Aerolíneas Argentinas announced the cancellation of 258 domestic flights, impacting around 20,000 travelers. International flights faced minor interruptions, according to airline officials.

This strike marks the third mobilization by Argentina's influential unions since Javier Milei took the presidency at the close of 2023. His administration has enacted stringent measures in a bid to combat hyperinflation—effectively reducing the annual rate from over 200% to approximately 60%. Nevertheless, trade unions argue that these policies have disproportionately harmed vulnerable groups, especially pensioners and low-wage earners.

Echoing the sentiments of many affected citizens, Horacio Bianchi, a retired teacher in Buenos Aires, lamented the growing struggle to afford basic necessities, stating, "These people [the government] came to solve the problems and they have absolutely worsened them for everyone." Just a day prior to the strike, thousands of workers had joined protests held by pensioners who have begun to feel the negative impacts of reduced pension funds, which have also faced violence as clashes erupted between protestors and police, particularly with collaborating groups like football fan clubs.

Preceding the strike, a peaceful march advocating for pensioners highlighted the ongoing economic challenges faced by many Argentines. The government's forthcoming negotiations for a $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, against a backdrop of an existing debt of $44 billion, add further tension to the ongoing situation. Notably, U.S. Treasury officials have expressed their support for Milei's economic reforms, proclaiming progress in alleviating Argentina's former economic crisis. Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, is scheduled to visit the capital next week to discuss these reforms.