Bolivia: Various groups plan to strike and protest Oct. 21-22

Event

Various sectors, including those representing labor unions, plan to strike and protest nationwide Oct. 21 and 22 to demand that the government repeal a controversial recently approved legislation titled Law 1386. The action is supported by the Civic Committee of Potosinista (Comite Civico Potosinista, COMCIPO), National Committee for the Defense of Democracy (Comite Nacional de Defensa de la Democracia, CONADE), and others. Some unions have reportedly rejected the call to mobilize.

Should the strike and protests proceed, related demonstrations, including roadblocks, are likely across the country. Gatherings are likely in department capitals and along major road routes. Protesters may gather at major government buildings, in city centers, and in prominent public squares. Security forces will likely deploy to all protest sites. Disruptions to the private and public sectors, including transportation, are possible. Clashes are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or are overly disruptive.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Reconfirm business appointments and the status of road routes before travel. Plan for freight delivery delays. Heed the instructions of security force personnel. Do not attempt to drive through protester roadblocks; wait for the authorities to clear all blockages.