Argentina: Major protests, strikes in Buenos Aires Dec. 18 /update 2

Event

Further strikes and protests are being held on Monday, December 18, to denounce planned pension reforms.

The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Argentina's largest union federation, is holding a general strike. Aviation-sector workers will be taking part, including employees of the airlines LATAM and Aerolíneas Argentinas. Up to 100 percent of flights are expected to be canceled, with both airlines currently advising travelers to not come to the airport. Metro services in the capital will be suspended beginning at 18:00 (local time). Commuter rail lines and bus services are expected to operate, although major traffic disruptions will affect bus routes.

Large-scale protests are scheduled in the capital to protest the reforms as well as to condemn the heavy-handed government response to related protests that occurred on December 14. Some protests will begin at 08:00, including at the Obelisco and Puente Pueyrredón; however, the largest demonstrations are expected around the National Congress building and on Mayo and Rivadavia avenues beginning at noon. Protesters are also threatening to block the main roads leading in and out of the capital.

An increased security presence is anticipated surrounding all demonstrations and violence cannot be ruled out.

Context

Violence broke out in Buenos Aires on December 14, during a protest organized to denounce pension reforms being debated by congress. Thousands of demonstrators reportedly clashed with police, who used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd that had gathered outside the congress building. Following the incident, congress suspended debate on the reforms; the debate is set to resume on Monday.

Advice

Individuals in Argentina, and Buenos Aires in particular, are advised to confirm flights, avoid all protests as a precaution, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.