CGT Announces Nationwide Strike in Argentina for April 10, 2024

Argentina’s CGT has called for a nationwide strike on April 10 against President Javier Milei’s government. This follows a planned workers’ march on April 9 and other organized events. The union demands reopening wage negotiations and support for retirees, amid rising worker discontent. Cabinet Chief Francos seeks negotiations to prevent the strike, which is seen as politically motivated by the government.

Argentina’s General Labor Confederation (CGT) has announced a nationwide strike scheduled for April 10, aimed at opposing the libertarian government led by President Javier Milei. This strike follows a demonstration planned for April 9 and marks the third protest against the administration after previous strike actions taken on January 24 and May 9, 2024.

The CGT intends to lead a workers’ march to the Congress on April 9, focusing on demands from retirees for improved income and social coverage. In addition, the union plans to participate in the Day of Memory march on March 24 and a major event for Workers’ Day on May 1, reflecting an ongoing commitment to workers’ rights.

Key demands from the CGT include the reopening of collective wage negotiations, as current salaries are not keeping pace with inflation. The union is also advocating for bonuses for retirees, a resumption of public works projects, and an end to police repression during social protests. CGT Secretary-General Héctor Daer has stated that the strike is non-negotiable amid rising worker discontent over declining wages.

As tensions within the CGT increase, leaders such as Daer and Andrés Rodríguez are aligning with radical factions pushing for this strike. Daer remarked, “The fall in wages as from the end of last year caused the paritarias to fall below inflation.” He asserted, “This strike will not be lifted.” Various unions, including the Lorry Drivers Union and transport unions, have expressed support for the strike, while participation from subway workers in Buenos Aires remains uncertain.

In an effort to prevent the strike, Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos plans to engage in negotiations with CGT leaders, although the likelihood of a successful resolution appears slim. The strike is perceived as politically motivated, stemming from recent protests and incidents of police repression. Presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni criticized the strike as a maneuver to undermine the government, asserting, “These strikes are to defend their own interests [of the union leaders].”

Adorni further argued, “There is nothing here that deserves a strike,” indicating the government’s stance that the concerns raised do not warrant such a measure.

The announcement of a nationwide strike by Argentina’s CGT reflects growing worker dissatisfaction with current economic conditions under President Javier Milei’s administration. Key demands include improved wage negotiations, better social support for retirees, and a resumption of public works. As unions unite for this cause, the government’s attempts at negotiation face significant challenges amid prevailing tensions and differing viewpoints on the legitimacy of the strike.

Original Source: en.mercopress.com