19 Dec 2018 | 09:53 AM UTC
Chile: Port workers strike and protest in Valparaiso December 18
Police disperse demonstration in Valparaiso on December 18; further demonstrations possible in the coming hours and days
Event
On Tuesday, December 18, police forces fired tear gas and used water cannons to disperse demonstrators, who had erected roadblocks in the port city of Valparaiso (Valparaiso region), amid an ongoing port worker strike, launched in mid-November to demand better working conditions. The strike and related protests have reportedly spread to other cities such as in Iquique, Antofagasta, San Antonio, and Puerto Montt. Further such protests are likely to continue in the coming days, if no agreement is reached with the operating company in Valparaiso port.
Advice
Individuals in Chile, notably in Valparaiso region, are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.