Guatemala: Activists to hold nationwide anti-government protests December 5

Event

Various social movements and activist groups have called for multiple protests at public squares (plazas) nationwide from 1000 Dec. 5. The anti-government protests are to denounce Guatemala's broader political system. The largest protests are likely to center on Guatemala City's Plaza de la Constitucion. Leaders of the Guatemalan Union, Indigenous and Peasant Movement (Movimiento Sindical, Indigena y Campesino Guatemalteco, MSICG) plan to hold additional demonstrations at public squares from 1400.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor all large demonstrations. The demonstrations are likely to be mostly peaceful, albeit highly disruptive, with the potential to draw thousands of people, especially in the capital. Demonstrators may attempt to block major roads and highways to exacerbate the disruptions. Nonetheless, isolated groups of protesters may commit acts of arson and vandalism, especially targeting government buildings and buses, as they did Nov. 21 when they set fire to part of the Congress building. Police are likely to use teargas and baton charges to disperse demonstrators engaged in any acts of criminality.

Context

Major anti-government protests first broke out Nov. 21 against the government's 2021 national budget, which Congress has since annulled. The demonstrations have since expanded into a broader condemnation of the government and deeply entrenched corruption, as well as the entire political system. Some anti-government groups are not only demanding the resignation of President Alejandro Giammattei and all 115 members of Congress but are also demanding that a National Popular Constituent Assembly be declared. Some human rights organizations have criticized the police for using excessive force during the Nov. 21 demonstrations; the perceived excessive use of force by police during any upcoming protests could also prompt additional demonstrations. Given this range of issues and the improbability of them being resolved in the immediate term, additional protests are highly likely.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Allow extra time to reach destinations near protest locations across Guatemala Dec. 5. Do not attempt to cross any roadblocks. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately, and seek shelter in the nearest secure location.