Argentina’s upper house narrowly approved a controversial bill crucial to President Javier Milei’s economic reform agenda, sparking clashes between protesters and police. The Senate voted 37 to 36 for provisional approval, with Vice President Victoria Villarruel breaking the tie. The bill includes radical measures on privatisation and tax breaks, which Milei views as essential for economic recovery. Protesters flooded the streets, leading to violent confrontations with security forces.
Despite opposition from left-wing lawmakers, the bill aims to overhaul the economy by declaring a state of economic emergency, privatising public companies, and weakening labour protections. Milei, a self-proclaimed “anarcho-capitalist”, views this as a landmark reform to restore Argentina’s greatness. However, critics fear it will exacerbate poverty and unemployment.
The bill’s passage marks a significant milestone in Milei’s political career, challenging the established political class. The outcome now hinges on a final Senate vote, with widespread societal opposition continuing to mount against the proposed reforms.