Argentina’s CGT has announced a nationwide strike for April 10, 2024, against President Javier Milei’s government, following a previous demonstration planned for April 9. Key demands include wage negotiations and improved conditions for retirees. The strike garners support from various labor unions while the government attempts to negotiate to avert this significant labor action, criticized by officials as politically motivated.
The General Labor Confederation (CGT) of Argentina has declared a nationwide strike for April 10, 2024, as a response to discontent with President Javier Milei’s administration. This action follows a demonstration set for April 9 and marks the third strike against the government, building on earlier stoppages on January 24 and May 9.
Workers plan to march to Congress alongside retirees advocating for improved income and social coverage. Upcoming actions also include participation in the Day of Memory march on March 24 and a significant Workers’ Day event on May 1. The CGT’s core demands focus on reopening collective wage bargaining, providing bonuses for retirees, resuming public works, and ceasing police repression during social protests.
CGT Secretary-General Héctor Daer labeled the strike as non-negotiable, highlighting the discontent due to declining wages and economic hardship. The tensions within the CGT become apparent as leaders advocating for dialogue align with more radical members who are pushing for the strike. Daer stated, “We demand the reopening of public works” and emphasized that “This strike will not be lifted.”
Support for the strike extends to the Lorry Drivers Union, transportation unions like La Fraternidad and Unión Ferroviaria, with UTEP also endorsing the action. The participation of the UTA remains undecided, which may impact the availability of subway services in Buenos Aires.
In an effort to prevent the strike, Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos intends to negotiate with key CGT leaders such as Daer and Gerardo Martínez from UOCRA, although the likelihood of success appears minimal. The impending strike is characterized as a political movement, influenced by recent protests and incidents of repression, including the injury of photojournalist Pablo Grillo during a March 12 march.
Manuel Adorni, the presidential spokesman, criticized the strike as a move to undermine governmental authority rather than address genuine worker concerns. He asserted, “These strikes are to defend their own interests [of the union leaders]” and maintained, “There is nothing here that deserves a strike; they want to do it to damage the Government.”
The upcoming nationwide strike organized by Argentina’s CGT on April 10 highlights escalating tensions between labor unions and the Milei administration, focusing on critical issues such as wage stagnation and economic distress. The strike embodies a significant labor movement addressing broader concerns over social justice and worker rights. Amidst negotiations between union leaders and government officials, skepticism remains regarding the potential for resolution, underscoring the challenges ahead.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
