Argentine trade unions have called for a general strike on Wednesday, November 19th, in protest against the labor reform proposed by President Milei's government. The State Workers' Association (ATE) predicts high participation in the action, which also demands the immediate reopening of collective bargaining. "The labor reform and the recent agreement with the United States are closely linked. We are mobilizing to defend all our agency's jobs, functions, and labor rights that the government is trying to destroy with its deregulating reform," the statement reads. ATE emphasizes that this measure was decided at a Federal Plenary of Delegates from across the country and is part of a state of alert and mobilization they have been maintaining. "Our organization, an emblem of collective bargaining and labor policy in Argentina, is under attack once again. The renewed presence of Sturzenegger's team confirms their intention to shrink, empty, and dismantle the Ministry of Labor to pave the way for a regressive labor reform that pushes us back to the 19th century," activists denounced. In response to accusations from Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, who labeled the strike organizers as 'coup plotters,' ATE's General Secretary Rodolfo Aguiar stated: "The ignorance of those who call us coup plotters is concerning. This is the first measure taken after the midterm elections. This strike will allow us to reignite the flame of conflict, which must grow rapidly." The union calls for unity, presence, and collective strength, declaring: "Wednesday, November 19th, is a fundamental step to begin confronting the labor reform and defending our strategic tasks and functions for the working class." The mobilization will take place at 12:00 PM at the doors of the Ministry of Labor (Alem 650, CABA).
