In Argentina, President Javier Milei has proposed a labor reform that has ignited significant debate among various sectors of society. The government touts the reform as a "modernization" of labor relations, arguing that it is necessary for the country’s economic recovery. However, many critics believe the proposed changes represent a major regression in workers' rights, particularly regarding the elimination of certain protections and the introduction of longer working hours in exchange for salaries paid in foreign currency, which they argue will disproportionately affect the working class.

On Thursday, the Chamber of Deputies preliminarily approved the labor reform bill, following its passage in the Senate a week earlier. However, during the voting process, a controversial clause related to medical leave was removed at the request of the ruling party, necessitating that the bill return to the Senate for further consideration. This procedural element adds an interesting twist to the legislative process and indicates ongoing contention within political ranks concerning aspects of the reform.

The congressional debate took place amid a general strike organized by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Argentina's largest labor union, highlighting the strong opposition to the reform from labor groups. Demonstrations also erupted in public squares, such as Plaza de Mayo, demonstrating the public's deep concern and discontent over the proposed changes and their potential repercussions on the workforce. This situation illustrates the broader struggle within Argentina between the government’s economic policies and the demands of labor representatives seeking to protect worker rights amid challenging economic conditions.