By Breaking Editor 
BUENOS AIRES, February 13, 2026 – The Argentine Senate has passed a regressive labor reform under President Javier Milei, allowing workdays to extend to 12 hours, a move that sparked protests across the nation and inspired revulsion from the LATAM public. The legislation, approved in the early hours of February 11, also eliminates paid overtime, mandates fewer workers’ rights, and revokes a month-long vacation entitlement that has historically been a cornerstone of Argentine labor contracts. The move is a major regression that will enslave the average Argentine.
For his part, far right president, Javier Milei hailed the new law as “historic,” framing it as a necessary step toward economic recovery. Social media reactions, however, denote a contrasting narrative, with many expressing fears that such policies mirror exploitative labor practices reminiscent of slave labor.
One post highlighted the sweeping changes approved under Milei’s administration: “¿Quieres trabajar 12 horas/día? ¿Que en vez de dinero te paguen con comida? ¿Adiós al pago de horas extras?” (Do you want to work 12 hours a day? Instead of money, be paid in food? Say goodbye to overtime pay?), referencing the elimination of standard labor protections.
Critics also drew parallels to trends in international labor policies, citing contrasting movements in nearby countries. As local labor reforms in Mexico aim to reduce working hours, Argentina’s amendments appear to amplify corporate power while undermining workers’ rights. “La ultraderecha es esto: jornadas de 12 horas y despidos gratis” (The far-right means 12-hour workdays and free dismissals), noted one critic, underscoring the fears of unrestricted business practices without adequate worker protections.
Opponents of the plan have expressed concerns over job security and deteriorating working conditions, with calls for civil unrest following the government’s announcement. “¿Cómo es posible una jornada de 12 horas si estamos bajando la horas semanales a 42?” (How is a 12-hour workday possible when we’re reducing weekly hours to 42?), asked a perplexed social media user.
The new law, which still requires approval from the Chamber of Deputies, threatens to further polarize labor dynamics in Argentina as unions, activists, and the public respond to Milei’s aggressive economic strategy. As protests gain momentum, the implications for the future of Argentine labor rights remain uncertain.