Argentina's CNEA staff dismissals spark protests and security crackdown

On 30 June 2026 the Argentine National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA) let expire the contracts of 62 workers, mainly temporary staff, after the government chose not to renew them. The terminations affected a mix of technicians, administrators and specialised laboratory personnel, leaving the agency with fewer than 60 workers at its San Rafael site and prompting fears that critical nuclear research and industrial services could be stalled.

The dismissals triggered protests at the CNEA headquarters in Núñez and at regional sites. Gendarmerie forces entered the building, forcibly removing demonstrators and escorting senior officials out. Union representatives denounced the move as part of a broader de‑financing plan; they note that more than 400 professionals have left the institute since early 2024 and that several units now operate with near‑zero budgets for essential supplies.

Officials claim only 61 administrative contracts were affected and that no scientists were laid off, while workers warn that the loss of key staff could cripple ongoing projects in nuclear energy, medicine and industry.