Argentina's Entre Ríos teachers union AGMER stages protest against provincial pension reform

The teachers' union AGMER in Concordia, Entre Ríos, has intensified its opposition to the provincial pension reform known as the “Restauración del equilibrio y fortalecimiento del sistema previsional.” Union leaders urged provincial legislators to vote against the measure, warning that it would “always mean a loss of rights for active and retired workers.” María José Chapitel, AGMER’s secretary general, said, “No vamos a ser cómplices ni permitir ninguna reforma que siempre significará pérdida de derecho para los trabajadores.”

AGMER began a protest camp on Plaza Mansilla in front of the legislature, maintaining a presence while the Senate debate proceeds. Secretary general Abel Antivero confirmed the union will attend the Senate discussion and announced that the camp will remain through June, noting, “Sabemos que esto nos va a llevar todo junio y nos estamos preparando.” The protest involves delegations from all 17 departments of the province and includes public classes and talks aimed at highlighting teachers’ demands for preserving pension benefits such as the 82% replacement rate and retirement age.