22 Jan 2018 | 11:50 AM UTC
Bolivia: Anti-government protests continue Jan. 15-16 /update 1
Various groups to hold strikes and protests January 15-16 in Bolivia; major disruptions due to roadblocks expected
Event
The COB (Central Obrera Boliviana) and other labor unions will carry out further strikes and protests in the coming hours and days to protest recent changes to the penal code, notably measures that allow current President Evo Morales to run for reelection indefinitely. On Monday, January 15, a general strike is taking place in El Alto, home to the international airport serving La Paz. Additionally, an indefinite strike will resume in the city of Potosí on Monday. A strike is also set to take place in the city of Cochabamba on January 16. Similar actions are to be anticipated in these and other areas over the coming days and weeks.
Demonstrations and roadblocks by striking working are to be anticipated on highways, including potentially at international border crossings, and at major intersections in affected areas.
Context
Bolivian civic groups and unions frequently erect roadblocks as a form of protest. The country's mountainous terrain means that few roads exist to connect major cities and therefore roadblocks serve as especially effective bargaining tools in negotiations. Violence at roadblocks is not rare.
Advice
Individuals present in Bolivia are advised to avoid all protests, never attempt to cross a roadblock without authorization due to the potential for violence, and allow for additional time to reach their destinations.
