Colombia: Protests planned in Bogota June 11 /update 1

Event

Protesters affiliated with a number of trade unions plan to demonstrate in Bogota on Thursday, June 11. The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), the Confederation of Colombian Workers (CTC), and the Central Union of Workers (CUT) has called on members to gather at Plaza de Bolívar from 12:00 (local time). Organizers announced that the demonstrations would abide by social distancing and hygiene measures due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The unions stated that the event is part of the continuation of protests in opposition to the social and economic policies of President Iván Duque.

Context

The Colombian government is prohibiting gatherings of over 500 people due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

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 Bogotá are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, monitor the situation, and obey instructions issued by local authorities.