Colombia: Union calls for protests in urban centers Oct. 20

Event

The Central Union of Workers (Central Unitaria de Trabajadores, CUT) plans to protest in multiple urban centers nationwide Oct. 20. The action has been called to demand better working conditions, particularly in the health sector. The largest rallies are likely in the following locations:

• Bogota: Protesters will gather from 09:30 at the National Park before marching to the Plaza de Bolivar.

• Cali: Protesters will gather from 09:00 at the Sena Headquarters before marching to the Ministry of Labor.

• Cartagena: Demonstrators will march in streets near the Department Assembly in the Manga area from 10:00.

• Medellin: Demonstrators will gather at the corner of Girardot and Calle 57 before marching to Parque de las Luces. The start time is unclear.

Protests are also possible in other urban areas. These are likely near union offices, major government buildings, and prominent parks or city centers. Hundreds of people are likely to attend each gathering. Security forces will likely deploy additional personnel to monitor and manage the crowds. Confrontations between protesters and the security forces are possible if demonstrators are overly disruptive, ignore police orders to disperse, or engage in acts of public violence. Ground travel disruptions are likely on routes near all protest locations.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Plan for short-term ground travel delays near protest sites and seek alternative routes before departure. Heed the instructions of local officials.