Colombia: Union calls for demonstrations nationwide April 9

Event

The Unitary National Command (CGT) union has called for nationwide demonstrations April 9 to denounce proposed tax reform legislation and other policies implemented by President Duque’s administration. The largest action is planned for Bogota, where participants will gather at the National Center for Historical Memory at 09:00. Gatherings are likely in major urban centers nationwide, though these will likely be smaller. The protests have the support of students, farmers, and indigenous groups among others; participation may therefore be considerable.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor all large gatherings. There is an elevated threat of violence at demonstrations that materialize, especially in Bogota. Security forces may seek to disperse protesters who disobey authorities' orders to disperse. Demonstrators could block roads. Any street protests that form in major cities have the potential to be highly disruptive.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Do not attempt to cross any protest blockades. Monitor local media for updates on the status of roads as protest locations may not be announced in advance. Depart the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Plan accordingly for potential disruptions to ground travel, especially in departmental capital cities.