Argentina: Chamber of Deputies approves Milei's controversial labor reform

Published at: 20/02/2026 09:06 AM

Early this Friday morning, the Argentine Chamber of Deputies approved the controversial labor reform promoted by the ultra-liberal president Javier Milei, amid the rejection of the regulations by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), which brings together the majority of the country's unions.

A total of 135 votes in favor and 115 against, the project received the necessary support for approval, although an article that reduced employee health benefits was deleted.

After the decision is heard, the measure must be ratified by the Upper House to become law.

Argentina's extreme right-wing government defends the law, claiming that it will lower labor costs, reduce the number of lawsuits for dismissals, and encourage formal work; while unions say it will curtail workers' rights.

Last Thursday, the CGT carried out a strike that partially paralyzed the country; it also warns that the bill restricts the right to strike, reduces compensation for layoffs and authorizes the extension of the working day to 12 hours without receiving extra pay in return, among other aspects.

Mazo News Team