Argentina's Labor Reform Passes Lower House, Faces Senate Vote Next

The Argentine Chamber of Deputies has approved a controversial labor reform proposed by President Javier Milei, with a vote of 135 in favor and 115 against. The legislation, which aims to modernize labor laws, will return to the Senate for final approval after the removal of a contentious article that reduced sick leave benefits. Critics argue that the reform undermines workers' rights, including changes to severance pay calculations and restrictions on the right to strike. Protests erupted in Buenos Aires during the debate, highlighting the public's strong opposition to the reform, which modifies labor conditions established since 1974.

Key Details: • The reform was passed with 135 votes for and 115 against. • The contentious Article 44, which reduced sick leave benefits, has been removed. • Protests occurred in Buenos Aires during the debate, leading to clashes with security forces. • The reform modifies severance pay calculations and limits the right to strike. • Final approval from the Senate is pending after the changes.