31 Dec 2019 | 01:26 PM UTC
Colombia: Nationwide protests scheduled December 31 – January 1 /update 19
Civil society groups call for nationwide protests on December 31 – January 1; transportation disruptions to be expected
Event
Several groups in Colombia have called for nationwide protests overnight (local time) from Tuesday, December 31, to Wednesday, January 1, in an ongoing effort to oppose the government. Organizers have asked participants to begin mobilizing after the clock strikes 00:01. Protests are to be expected across urban centers, especially so in Bogota.
A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected.
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. Heightened security measures were previously approved across Colombia in anticipation of the protests, permitting local authorities to implement curfews and restrict civilian movement.
Advice
Individuals in Colombia are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, monitor the situation, and obey instructions issued by local authorities.
