Argentina heads into year-end with a heightened sense of urgency, not merely because seasons are changing. The administration led by Javier Milei has signaled a December 29 Decree of Necessity and Urgency (DNU) that would push more than 300 measures aimed at deregulating the economy, trimming workers’ rights including the right to strike, permitting land sales to foreign buyers, and privatizing state enterprises, among other goals. Yet, a span of seven days can alter a country’s mood quickly. On the second night after the announcement, Buenos Aires and several interior regions witnessed protests centered around the Congressional district, with cacerolazos and street demonstrations challenging tight security controls. The General Confederation of Labor (CGT) announced a mobilization in the coming days to support filings for protection against the so-called “paquetazo.”
The new president faced three demonstrations within twelve days of taking office, including nostalgic calls for a past that never truly existed. Milei secured victory in the second round with about 55 percent of the vote and argues that his plan can be advanced in Parliament to reform Argentina “at its roots.” He also predicted that social unrest would be temporary, though observers warned about political risk as the situation unfolds.
Moments before a wave of protests and a new round of street actions, workers from state banks and tenants gathered in central areas to oppose the cancellation of rent protections. They warned of suspended payments, rising evictions, and a broader trend toward currency-dollarization of rents. In his hometown of Rosario, thousands joined a regional demonstration led by labor groups for similar reasons. A similar pattern emerged in Córdoba, a province pivotal to Milei’s electoral success.
“Cacerolazo” demonstrations against Milei’s reforms spilled into the early hours in Buenos Aires. The scene was captured by photographers and reporters, underscoring the widening breadth of the mobilizations across the capital and beyond.
The street protests are not the only challenge facing the new government. The DNU has stirred tensions within public institutions, with broad opposition indicating that Congress might overrule the measure. A widely cited opinion in a leading newspaper emphasized the potential for strong congressional rejection.
Rejection of Peronism
Peronism left power on December 10 amid visible conflicts among its leaders. The new authorities sought unitary support to move forward. Critics argued that the Executive acted outside formal channels, tapping exclusive legislative powers. A former president labelled the DNU as a potential example of serious institutional overreach. Provincial leaders also weighed in, with some arguing that the decree was unnecessary and that reforms could be achieved through other means rather than by decree. Critics warned that the package risked privatization, deregulation, and the erosion of workers’ rights, potentially affecting broader sectors of the economy and civil life.
The Argentine Pharmaceutical Confederation (COFA) criticized the DNU, saying it could threaten public health access to medicines. Proposals under the plan included allowing drug sales outside traditional pharmacy settings, reducing funding for public drug and vaccine production, and removing mandatory pharmacist presence in certain outlets.
Support from Employers
On the other side, the administration received notable backing from business groups. Organizations such as the Argentine Business Association, the Argentine Industrial Union, and the Chamber of Commerce welcomed the reforms, arguing that the changes offer a path out of stagnation and a chance to reenergize the economy. Supporters frame the measures as a decisive shift toward long-needed modernization and competitive reforms.
RESPONSIBILITY AND SIGNIFICANCE
Many Argentinians feel the weight of recent policy choices and their impacts on daily life. Amid a fragile moment, citizens are urged to stay informed and engaged as the political landscape continues to evolve.
The political discourse in this period highlighted the urgency of taking bold measures to address inflation and economic stability. Some leaders emphasized the need for decisive action, while others warned of risks to social cohesion and public services if reforms are rushed or implemented without broad consensus.
Observations from business and civic leaders reflect a spectrum of views about the future. A prominent public figure argued that the country faces a fork in the road: opportunities that could set Argentina on a sustainable growth path or disruptive outcomes if policy moves are mismanaged. As reforms unfold, new adjustments to civil codes and contracts were discussed, including provisions to accommodate non-traditional payment methods and instruments in the broader legal framework.
In this tense moment, the broader question for Argentina is how to balance rapid reform with social protection, ensuring that changes support both economic competitiveness and the well-being of everyday families. The coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the direction and pace of these reforms, as policymakers, businesses, and citizens navigate a challenging yet potentially transformative period.