06 Nov 2018 | 08:35 PM UTC
Argentina: Labor unions stage sit-in November 5-8 in La Plata /update 7
Labor unions protest budget cuts with sit-in at La Plata’s Plaza San Martín November 5-8; further associated protests and disruptions possible
Event
Numerous labor unions protesting budget cutsin La Plata (Buenos Aires province) are currently staging a sit-in expected to run from Monday, November 5, through Thursday, November 8. The protests began with a demonstration at 10:00 (local time) in Plaza Italia before moving to Plaza San Martín, where protesters plan to remain in front of the provincial legislative building, to hold a sit-in until Thursday. Associated demonstrations in the vicinity are expected throughout the week, along with a heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions.
Context
Several labor unions have staged demonstrations and strikes in recent months to protest the country's economic condition and recent policies. In August, President Macri announced that Argentina would accept a USD 50 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Labor unions sharply rejected the subsequent budget as being dictated by the IMF and overly harsh to the working class. Argentina is experiencing an economic crisis with sharp currency devaluation and inflation.
Advice
Individuals in La Plata are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, and avoid all public gatherings as a precaution.
