Protests as lawmakers debate reforms supported by Argentine president

Protests as lawmakers debate reforms supported by Argentine president

Protests erupted in Buenos Aires on Wednesday as police clashed with demonstrators while lawmakers deliberated on a contentious bill put forth by newly-elected President Javier Milei. 

The “omnibus bill” contains hundreds of articles which – if passed – will bring in sweeping free-market reforms.

President Milei, elected in November with a pledge to revamp Argentina’s crisis-ridden economy and reduce inflation, faces opposition to some of his proposals from certain lawmakers. Expressing concerns over the potential consequences, he has warned of a “social catastrophe of biblical proportions” unless radical reforms are implemented.

With an annual inflation rate soaring to 211%, the highest in over three decades, and over 40% of the population living in poverty according to the country’s statistics office, the urgency for economic changes is huge.

Initially proposed with over 650 articles, the bill has undergone significant reduction in an attempt to garner support from the opposition, which holds a majority in the lower house.