CGT Calls for General Strike in Argentina Amid Pensioner Protests

Argentina’s largest trade union, CGT, has called for a general strike on April 10 in response to police violence during protests supporting pensioners. Demands include emergency pension increases and an end to public works freezes. This marks the third strike since President Milei’s austerity measures began, which have significantly affected pensioners’ living conditions.

On March 21, 2025, Argentina’s foremost trade union, the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), announced a general strike scheduled for April 10. This strike is a reaction to a recent police crackdown on protests supporting pensioners, which resulted in numerous injuries. Hector Daer, the CGT’s general secretary, emphasized that the strikers will demand adjustments to pensions and an end to the suspension of public works, imposed by President Milei over the past 15 months.

Daer underscored the significance of the strike, stating, “From midnight on the 10th, a 24-hour strike.” This upcoming work stoppage marks the third general strike since President Milei’s administration commenced in December 2023, during which he has pursued aggressive reductions in public expenditure to address soaring inflation. Pensioners have faced considerable hardship due to Milei’s austerity strategies, which have deepened the nation’s recession throughout most of 2024 despite slowing inflation rate increases.

The decreases in pension benefits have failed to keep pace with inflation over the past year, resulting in diminished living standards for retirees exacerbated by the elimination of price controls on medications. In solidarity, many football fans participated in protests alongside pensioners last week, culminating in violent confrontations with law enforcement that led to more than 120 arrests. A photojournalist sustained critical injuries during the events. The government has dismissed the protestors as “hooligans” and accused them of sedition.

In summary, the CGT’s impending general strike on April 10 highlights the growing discontent over austerity measures affecting pensioners in Argentina. With police violence against peaceful demonstrators and continued pension inadequacies, the union’s actions reflect a significant pushback against President Milei’s policies. The situation represents a critical moment for workers’ rights and public welfare in the face of extensive economic challenges.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net