Buenos Aires (Argentina), 12 February (LaPresse/AP) – Tension in Argentina, where Javier Milei's government has achieved its first legislative victory of 2026, with the Senate approving the first reading of the labour reform, crucial to the president's ultra-liberal programme, with 42 votes in favour and 32 against. The decision came amid vehement protests by thousands of workers mobilised by the main trade unions, who paralysed traffic in Buenos Aires and clashed with the police, who used water cannons and rubber bullets. The protesters responded by throwing stones, bottles and Molotov cocktails, with several people being arrested. The executive argues that the reform will modernise the labour market, reduce litigation and promote formal employment. The opposition, on the other hand, denounces a curtailment of workers' rights and an increase in precariousness. The measure will now be examined by the House of Representatives.
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