Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of Buenos Aires on February 15, 2026, as anger spilled over following the Senate’s approval of President Javier Milei’s sweeping labor reform. The footage broadcast on Argentine television showed clashes near Congress, with riot police deploying tear gas as protesters hurled stones and erected makeshift barricades.
The reform, approved by a reported 42–30 vote in Argentina’s Senate on February 12, introduces significant changes to work scheduling and compensation structure. At the center of the unrest is a provision allowing optional 12-hour workdays within the country’s 48-hour weekly cap, as well as measures permitting certain non-cash benefits — including food and housing — to be factored into compensation agreements.
Labor unions say the reform effectively extends the workday by 50% in practical terms and weakens long-standing worker protections. Organizers described the legislation as a structural shift that places greater negotiating power in the hands of employers during a period of deep economic strain.
Supporters of President Milei argue the reforms are designed to increase labor flexibility, encourage hiring, and lower operational costs in an economy grappling with recession, inflation, and mounting fiscal pressure. Argentina has faced triple-digit inflation and persistent currency instability, intensifying debates over deregulation and state intervention.
Clashes Near Congress
Television footage labeled “Marcha Contra la Reforma Laboral” showed crowds converging around central Buenos Aires. Smoke from tear gas drifted between buildings while protesters chanted against the reform package. Police units formed barricades near key intersections as demonstrators attempted to advance toward the legislative district.
Authorities have not released comprehensive arrest figures, but local coverage indicated multiple confrontations throughout the afternoon and evening. The demonstrations reflect mounting frustration among union groups, public sector employees, and segments of Argentina’s middle class.
What the Reform Changes
The newly approved measures expand employer flexibility in structuring work shifts, allowing companies to adopt longer daily schedules provided the overall weekly limit remains intact. In addition, employers may structure compensation agreements that include defined non-monetary components such as housing or meal provisions.
Government officials maintain that these adjustments modernize Argentina’s labor framework and align it more closely with competitive global markets. They argue that rigid labor codes have historically discouraged formal hiring and investment.
Critics counter that in a fragile economic environment, workers may feel compelled to accept longer shifts or altered compensation structures due to limited employment alternatives.
International observers are closely monitoring developments as Argentina advances one of the most aggressive deregulatory agendas in recent decades. Broader economic coverage on the country’s fiscal reforms and market response has been tracked by outlets including Reuters.
Political and Economic Stakes
President Milei has framed the reform as a necessary shock to revive productivity and restore investor confidence. His administration argues that flexibility is essential to stimulate private-sector growth and counter long-standing stagnation.
For organized labor, however, the reform represents a red line. Major unions have warned of additional nationwide mobilizations in the coming weeks. The February 15 protests may mark the beginning of a broader confrontation between Milei’s libertarian reform agenda and Argentina’s powerful labor movement.
With inflation still weighing heavily on households and economic confidence fragile, the labor overhaul has become a defining test of Milei’s presidency. Whether it delivers the promised growth or deepens social tensions remains uncertain, but the intensity of the street response suggests Argentina has entered a volatile new chapter.
Footage shows protests across Argentina after President Javier Milei enacted sweeping labor reforms that lengthen the workday by 50% and allow employers to offset wages with food and housing. https://t.co/NhFQkGrECl pic.twitter.com/kc6p91vMa7
— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) February 15, 2026
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