Argentina: Rallies planned in Buenos Aires and Bariloche August 1

Event

Human rights and civil society groups are planning to hold rallies in Buenos Aires and Bariloche (Rio Negro province) on Wednesday, August 1. The events are being held to mark the one-year anniversary of the death of Santiago Maldonado, a young activist who was allegedly murdered. In Buenos Aires, people will gather at the Plaza de Mayo starting at 15:00 (local time). The rally in Bariloche will be held outside the Civic Center starting at 13:30. Expect heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions around the protest sites.

Context

Maldonado disappeared in Cushamen (Chubut province) on August 1, 2017, and was later found dead in the Chubut River. Government officials said that he died from drowning while attempting to cross the river. However, Maldonado's family claims he was murdered and his body was planted. Maldonado had been participating in protest in support of an indigenous community that was broken up by the gendarmerie.

Advice

Individuals in Buenos Aires and Bariloche are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and allow additional time to travel.