19 Dec 2017 | 01:51 PM UTC
Argentina: Strike continues in Buenos Aires Dec. 19 /update 3
General strike continues in Buenos Aires December 19 to denounce planned pension reforms; associated protests and violence possible
Event
Further flight disruptions are to be anticipated on Tuesday, December 19, due to a general strike set to run until noon (local time). The worst of the disruptions are to be anticipated at Buenos Aires’s Ezeiza (EZE) and Jorge Newbery (AEP) international airports. The metro system in the capital could also be affected by the strike, although bus services are expected to operate normally.
The strike is being organized by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Argentina's largest union federation, to pressure the congress to reject proposed pension reforms introduced by the conservative administration of President Mauricio Macri. Associated large-scale protests have been taking place in the capital in recent days, notably around the National Congress building, leading to major traffic disruptions and clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Further protests are to be anticipated in the coming hours and days, particularly if the bill is approved, a likely scenario.
Context
Violence broke out in Buenos Aires on December 14 and again on December 18 during protests; both protests coincided with debates taking place in congress over the bill. Thousands of demonstrators reportedly clashed with police, who used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds that had gathered outside the congress building. Scores of people have been arrested and injured.
Advice
Individuals in Argentina, and Buenos Aires in particular, are advised to confirm flight reservations, avoid all protests, and keep abreast of the situation.
