Since Javier Milei's administration began, public employment in Argentina has seen a drastic reduction, with 62,768 jobs cut from December 2023 to January 2026, marking an 18% decrease. This reduction encompasses various sectors including ministries, decentralized entities, and public companies, as detailed in a report by the Argentine Institute of Fiscal Analysis (IARAF). The changes have been consistent month over month with no periods of growth in the public sector employment numbers.

The report, based on official data from Indec, reveals that the total public workforce in Argentina fell from 341,473 in December 2023 to 278,705 just over two years later. This significant downsizing reflects Milei's commitment to austerity and fiscal reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy amid challenges such as inflation and public debt.

Implications of these cuts may resonate throughout the economy, as the reduction in public sector jobs could lead to increased unemployment rates and a decrease in public services. Critics argue that the austerity measures could hinder economic recovery efforts, while supporters claim that they are necessary for long-term fiscal responsibility. The overall impact on the welfare of public employees and the citizens they serve remains a critical point of discussion in Argentina's ongoing economic debate.