Massive General Strike Paralyzes Buenos Aires in Protest Against Argentina’s Far-Right President
In a historic display of resistance, thousands of Argentinian workers took to the streets of Buenos Aires in a general strike to protest against President Javier Milei and his far-right policies. This unprecedented mobilization marks the first time in modern Argentinian history that a mass strike has been called less than two months into a new presidency.
The nationwide protests reflect the urgency felt by labor union leaders as Milei pushes forward with radical economic and political reforms that he likens to “shock therapy.” His plans include overhauling the government, privatizing public industries, and implementing severe spending cuts.
On Wednesday, protesters gathered in front of Argentina’s Congress, banging pots and carrying signs accusing Milei of being a “traitor.” Some banners even featured the portrait of working-class icon Evita Peron. The demonstrators voiced their concerns about the steep increase in food prices since Milei took office, making it difficult for them to afford basic necessities. Many expressed their frustration with rising rents and the inability to make ends meet on their salaries.
Alicia Pereyra, a 63-year-old retiree, spoke out against Milei’s efforts to deregulate the economy and abolish rent regulations. She fears that these measures will turn the people into “slaves” and make it even harder for her to access the medicine she needs for her chronic illness. The economic reforms have forced her to give up small luxuries, such as wine for New Year’s toast, as prices continue to soar.
Argentina was already grappling with triple-digit inflation when Milei assumed office. In an attempt to stabilize the economy, he devalued the Argentinian peso by 54 percent, exacerbating the already high inflation rates. The country ended 2023 with an annual inflation rate of 211.4 percent, surpassing even Venezuela and becoming the steepest rate in Latin America. The rapid inflation has led to higher prices for consumers, further straining their purchasing power.
Santiago Manoukian, chief economist at consulting firm Ecolatina, predicts that the December price increases will continue to impact consumers for the next few months, resulting in a decline in real wages. This trend is expected to slow consumer spending, leading to a recession, increased unemployment, and a rise in poverty. Before Milei took office, four in 10 Argentines were already living in poverty.
Milei wasted no time in implementing austerity measures, including cuts to government spending and consumer subsidies. His “mega-decree” reformed or overturned dozens of laws and paved the way for the privatization of state-run companies. Another decree eliminated 5,000 government jobs. Despite these measures, Milei’s omnibus law, which aims to grant broad legislative powers to the executive branch for one year, is currently being considered by Congress.
The president dismissed Wednesday’s strike as evidence of backward thinking and claimed that there are “two Argentinas” – one that wants progress and another that clings to the past. His administration also criticized the protesters, with Security Minister Patricia Bullrich calling the union groups organizing the strike “gangsters” and “guarantors of poverty.”
Federico Finchelstein, a historian and fascism scholar, compared Milei’s authoritarian style of populism to that of former US President Donald Trump. He noted that Milei seeks to undermine democratic institutions and consolidate executive authority. Despite facing criticism and protests, Milei enjoys broad support among Argentinians. A recent poll showed that 55 percent of respondents believed his reform measures were necessary to improve the economy.
Political scientist Federico Zapata attributes Milei’s popularity to successful messaging and the installation of a consensus over the economic crisis. Milei has effectively shifted blame onto his left-wing predecessor, former President Alberto Fernandez, for the country’s economic problems. Zapata believes that Milei’s supporters will stick with him for longer than the usual honeymoon period due to lowered expectations.
However, the same poll revealed that a majority of respondents felt major policy changes should be implemented gradually, rather than all at once. Milei may face further challenges to his reforms, as a top Argentinian court has already invalidated a key component of his “mega-decree.” Some believe that opposition to Milei could grow to the point where he is unable to finish his term in office.
Despite the uncertainty, Milei’s supporters remain optimistic that he will fulfill his campaign promises. Luis Testa, a cab driver who voted for Milei, expressed his support, even as he makes cuts to his daily expenses. He believes that giving Milei a chance for a year is necessary, even if it means tightening their belts and eating beans.
The general strike in Buenos Aires serves as a powerful statement against Milei’s far-right policies and the impact they have had on the lives of ordinary Argentinians. As the protests continue and