Paraguay: Farmers to protest in Asunción Oct. 23

Event

Rural farmers (campesinos) announced renewed protests in the capital city of Asunción to be held on Monday, October 23. The protests come as the farmers accuse the government of non-compliance with promised agricultural aid. An increased security presence as well as localized transportation disruptions are expected during the demonstrations.

Context

Campesinos from around the country converged on the capital earlier this year, setting up camp in the central Plaza de Armas in front of the Congress building from July 11 to August 17. The protests were launched to demand the government declare an agricultural state of emergency and provide economic assistance to farmers. A bill aimed at providing agricultural subsidies was vetoed by the Senate in early August but the legislature had agreed to revisit the issue.

Advice

Individuals in Paraguay are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution and to keep abreast of the situation.