Argentina has cut 15,000 state jobs under as part of President Javier Milei’s efforts to reduce spending, sparking protests from affected workers and unions, Associated Press reports.
The government defended the cuts as necessary to streamline the bloated public sector and balance the budget. The move has triggered protests from affected workers and trade unions, who see it as unjust and detrimental amid rising poverty. Protesters gathered outside government buildings, denouncing the layoffs and demanding reinstatement. Despite government warnings and increased police presence, unions vow to continue protesting, potentially undermining Milei’s goal of achieving a zero budget deficit by year-end.
Milei’s campaign promise to trim the size of the government has led to various austerity measures, such as subsidy cuts and devaluing the peso, exacerbating inflation and economic hardship for many. Analysts warn of a delicate balance between spending cuts and preventing social unrest.
