Buenos Aires, February 12, 2026 – The Europe Today: Argentina’s Senate has approved President Javier Milei’s sweeping labor reform bill, marking a significant milestone in his pro-market economic agenda aimed at stimulating investment and expanding formal employment.
Following more than 13 hours of debate, senators voted 42–30 in favor of the legislation. The bill will now proceed to the Chamber of Deputies for further deliberation, according to media reports.
President Milei described the reform as a “turning point” for Argentina’s labor system, stating that the measures would streamline bureaucratic procedures and modernize regulations to better align with current economic and technological realities. The government maintains that the overhaul is designed to create a more flexible labor market, attract domestic and foreign investment, and generate new job opportunities within the formal sector.
However, opposition Peronist lawmakers voiced strong criticism, warning that the proposed changes could undermine longstanding worker protections. During negotiations, several amendments were introduced, including the removal of a proposal to reduce income tax rates and the addition of concessions sought by labor unions.
The reform package introduces modifications to hiring regulations, adjustments to vacation policies, provisions allowing for the extension of the standard workday from eight to 12 hours under certain conditions, and new limitations on the right to strike.
The Senate vote took place amid demonstrations outside Congress, where clashes between protesters and security forces were reported.
The labor reform constitutes a central pillar of President Milei’s broader strategy to restructure Argentina’s economy and address long-standing structural challenges.
