COVID-19 and Labour Law: Argentina

Abstract

Argentina has had a profound regulatory activity to counteract the coronavirus pandemic so far. Based on the experience of other countries, a strict lockdown was put into place at an early stage, which has been opening up slowly but gradually. Telework was recommended and a benefits program for affected businesses was implemented to ensure the payment of social security and salaries. A temporary prohibition of dismissals and suspensions was taken to protect employment and workers’ income. Regarding essential workers, COVID-19 has been deemed as an occupational disease for additional protection. Social protection was reinforced and an emergency family income for vulnerable groups was implemented, between other measures.

Keywords: COVID-19, Coronavirus, Labour Law, Telework, Employment Protection, Health and Safety, Income Support, Social Protection

JEL Classification: J00, J01, J08, J1, J18, J2, J20, J3, J38, J4, J48, J5, J58, J6, J68, J8, J81, J83, J88, J89, K1, K1