Guatemala: Nationwide protests planned March 22-25

Event

Different groups plan to hold nationwide protests in Guatemala March 22-25. Healthcare workers affiliated with the National Union of Healthcare Workers (El Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores de Salud de Guatemala, SNTG) have called for protests outside government buildings nationwide March 22. Separately, veterans of Guatemala's armed forces will hold protests and associated blockades between 06:00-15:00 March 23-25. The action is to demand Congress approve a bill that would grant them so-called patriotic bonuses.

The veteran protests are likely to be especially disruptive. In the capital, participants intend to rally outside the Congress building, Constitutional Court, offices of the Human Rights Ombudsman, US Embassy, and La Aurora International Airport (GUA). Elsewhere, organizers have called on demonstrators to protest at national government, municipal, and customs buildings, as well as airports, various hydroelectric plants, the Perenco oil company in Peten, and strategic highways throughout the country.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the protests and secure the government buildings. Clashes between police and protesters are possible if demonstrators breach security cordons or if police attempt to disperse those who block roads. All large gatherings and protest blockades are likely to cause significant transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid all protests and leave the area at the first sign of violence. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait for the police to dismantle them before proceeding. Allow extra time to reach destinations within and between cities in Guatemala March 22-25.