Colombia: General strike in Buenaventura enters third day May 18

Event

Thousands of residents of Buenaventura (Valle del Cauca) continued a Paro Civico (‘’Civic Unemployment’’) movement on Thursday, May 18. Protesters are demanding that the national government agrees to declare a state of social emergency in the area and deliver improved social services. Five ports, as well as the commercial, banking, and tourist sectors are currently at a standstill. Local authorities indicate that some 25,000 million pesos have been lost as a result of the protest movement. Export-based economic sectors are also particularly affected. The import of food and other staple goods has been allowed to continue using minimum services. Transportation disruptions are expected as roads are blocked by the protesters, preventing anyone accessing the island.

Context

Buenaventura suffers from poor socioeconomic conditions and social services, compounded by a lack of decent health care and education, inequality, and poverty. Additionally, crime rates are relatively high due to the presence of gangs involved in drug trafficking in areas abandoned by the FARC. The area has been subject to a variety of demonstrations to demand improved living conditions.

Advice

Individuals present in Buenaventura are advised to avoid all demonstrations, and monitor local developmentsµ. Any travel to the area should be postponed until the situation is resolved.