Colombia: Activists plan protests in Bogota, multiple other cities Aug. 26

Event

Unionized activists, affiliated with the umbrella organization National Strike Committee (Comite Nacional del Paro, CNP), plan to hold protests in multiple locations throughout Colombia, Aug. 26. The largest demonstration is likely to occur in Bogota, where activists intend to march from Parque Nacional to Plaza de Bolivar, starting at 10:00. In Cali, demonstrators plan to march from La Estacion to the Valle del Cauca Department Governor's Office. Demonstrators intend to oppose a government-sponsored tax reform that is being debated in Congress, as well as to demand the passing of several bills unions and student organizations proposed in recent weeks. Major demonstrations are likely in several other locations, including Barranquilla, Medellin, Cucuta, and Bucaramanga, although details have not been confirmed.

Thousands are likely to participate in the protests, especially in Bogota, leading to transport and business disruptions. Heightened security is likely around the protest area. Previous similar demonstrations have ended in clashes between demonstrators and police, as well as acts of looting and vandalism of public transportation, government offices, and private businesses; violence is possible Aug. 26.

Context

The CNP and multiple other organizations, as well as unaffiliated citizens, held numerous well-attended protests in Colombia beginning late April, through at least June. The protests were in opposition to a tax reform bill, which was subsequently retracted by the national government; however, protests evolved to include multiple grievances. Violence during the protests leaft at least 26 people dead according to official data, although non-government organizations argue the number is closer to 75 fatalities. Hundreds of public transport units, government buildings and private businesses were burned or vandalized during those demonstrations.

The Aug. 26 protests are unlikely to spark a new wave of national protests but may lead to some clashes and isolated acts of vandalism.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Confirm appointments and allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in a major city in Colombia, Aug. 26. If violence breaks out near you, leave the area immediately.