Bolivia: Nationwide civic strike scheduled on August 21 /update 1

Event

Bolivian civic groups have scheduled a strike to oppose President Evo Morales' reelection campaign for a fourth term on Wednesday, August 21. The 24-hour nationwide strike will likely produce marches and protests throughout urban centers in Bolivia, including in La Paz.

Some civil unions will not participate due to the concern that participation may impact the sectors negatively. Civic groups in Santa Cruz will not participate and will instead offer support and solidarity to those affected by forest fires in the district.

A heightened security presence and associated transportation and commercial disruptions are expected on the day of the strike. Further related protests are likely in the coming weeks.

Context

Current President Evo Morales was re-elected for his third five-year term in 2014 and is seeking to win a fourth term in the October 2019 general election. In 2016, Morales succeeded in removing presidential term limits through the Constitutional Court. This has produced a great loss of support and growing discontent among Bolivians. Since, Bolivian citizens have organized demonstrations to express this discontent and opposition to Morales remaining in office. Groups and individuals opposed to Morales have participated in nationwide strikes, anti-government protests, several road blockades, strikes held by various sectors to oppose poor working conditions, and hunger strikes against Morales' candidacy and tenure as president.

Advice

Individuals in Bolivia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstration areas as a precaution, anticipate transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence, and obey instructions issued by the local authorities.