Colombia: Anti-government activists call for nationwide protests July 20

Event

Anti-government activists have called for nationwide protests across Colombia, July 20, coinciding with Independence Day. The action is in opposition to tax reform bills, the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment, and the response of security forces against demonstrators in previous related protests. The largest protests are likely in major urban centers, especially the capital, Bogota, where thousands of participants are likely to attend.

Protests are possible along major roads, outside government buildings, and in major city squares. Security personnel will likely deploy heavily to protests; transport disruptions are likely near demonstration sites. Clashes between demonstrators and police are possible, and fatal clashes have occurred at similar protests since April. Clashes are more likely if police move to disperse protesters forcefully. Police and military personnel could deploy water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. The use of live ammunition cannot be ruled out. Given precedent in recent associated actions, the threat of violence, vandalism and looting is elevated after dark.

Any possible associated labor strikes may limit services in public offices, healthcare facilities, and essential businesses.

Context

The July 20 protest is the latest in multiple rounds of protests, strikes, and associated unrest that began April 28 in opposition to a tax reform bill supported by President Ivan Duque's administration. While the government ultimately withdrew the draft law, protests continued against other government policies, including the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the response of security forces against the demonstrators, among other issues. A second raft of the tax reform bill will be presented to the legislature July 20, which is also the first day of the legislative year.

Unions, students, indigenous organizations, and agricultural workers have mostly led the nationwide demonstrations since they began in late April; many of the protests have been disruptive and some have devolved into fatal violence, with clashes frequently reported between demonstrators and security forces. Since early June, the size and frequency of the protests have significantly decreased, as has the severity of associated disruptions.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Do not attempt to cross any protester roadblocks; allow police to clear them before proceeding. Monitor local media for updates on the status of roads, as protest locations may not be announced in advance. Exit the area at the first sign of any confrontation.