Feb 20 • 10:55 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina Clarin (ES)

More precariousness, fewer births: the paradox of labor reform

Argentina's labor reform under Javier Milei's government exacerbates precarious working conditions, particularly for women, by increasing job insecurity and deepening existing inequalities.

The labor reform championed by Javier Milei's government is seen as unfavorable to most workers, with dire implications for women who already face high levels of informal and precarious employment. In sectors heavily dominated by women, such as domestic work, services, and commerce, unstable job relationships, part-time work, and significant protections against layoffs prevail. The reform's provisions, including an extended probation period and changes in severance pay, are expected to disproportionately affect those in vulnerable employment situations, further entrenching their difficulties.

Moreover, the proposed labor reform entirely overlooks the unequal distribution of caregiving responsibilities in Argentine society. Women, who already dedicate approximately twice the amount of time as men to caregiving tasks, will likely be further burdened as the labor market becomes less favorable for them. This oversight not only highlights the structural inequalities within the labor market but also raises concerns on how these changes will impact family life, birth rates, and overall social equity in Argentina.

In conclusion, the paradox of this labor reform is that while it aims at improving labor market flexibility, it may inadvertently lead to a decrease in births and perpetuate gender inequalities. As women's precarious employment conditions worsen, their ability to raise families and contribute socioeconomically is jeopardized, pointing to a significant need for a more equitable approach in labor market reforms that consider the realities of caregiving and gender dynamics.

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