El Salvador: Water rights protest in San Salvador Sep. 27 /update 5

Event

A protest march organized by the Catholic Church is set to take place in the capital San Salvador on Thursday, September 27, to demand the passage of the General Water Act, which would guarantee public management of water resources. Demonstrators will march to the National Assembly building (Asamblea Legislativa). Further such protests are possible in the following days and weeks. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context

Various related protests were held over the summer to denounce perceived plans by the ARENA political party (Alianza Republicana Nacionalista) to privatize the provision of water services. One such protest held in front of the National Assembly building was forcibly dispersed by security forces using teargas.

Advice

Individuals in El Salvador are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution.