Colombia: Nationwide protest scheduled November 26 /update 9

Event

Unitary Central of Workers of Colombia (CUT) has called for a nationwide protest to take place as of 12:00 (local time) on Tuesday, November 26. Gatherings are expected across urban centers in Colombia to commemorate the death of student and protester Dylan Cruz, who was killed during recent protests. Further transportation disruptions on the TransMileno network are to be expected on Tuesday, as vandalism and roadblocks have interrupt the flow of traffic and metro operations.

President Ivan Duque asked union leaders who have planned the nationwide protests to a meeting to discuss and negotiate, though leaders have since refused to attend. Further protests are to be expected in Bogotá and other major urban areas over the coming days. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.  

Context

Several unions and civil society groups have been organizing nationwide protests and strikes since November 21 to protest the policies of President Iván Duque's administration, including the alleged support of unpopular economic plans and the perceived lack of government action to counter killings of human rights activists and rein in corruption. As of November 25, three people have reportedly been killed in protests. Heightened security measures were approved across Colombia in anticipation of the protests, permitting local authorities to implement curfews and restrict civilian movement.

Advice

Individuals in Bogotá and across Colombia are advised to closely monitor developments, avoid all protests and large public gatherings due to potential violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.