Argentina: Labor activists to march in downtown Buenos Aires Aug. 10

Event

Activists from Unidad Piquetera plan to march in downtown Buenos Aires Aug. 10. The purpose of the action is to demand a meeting with Minister of the Economy Sergio Massa in an effort to obtain increased salaries and benefits. Participants will assemble on Avenida Belgrano, at the Obelisco, and the intersection of avenidas de Mayo and 9 de Julio at 11:00 before marching in three separate columns to Plaza de Mayo in front of the presidential palace. From there, demonstrators will form a single column and march to the Ministry of Social Development to demand universal access to social programs.

Although the action should remain largely peaceful, authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased police presence nearby as a precaution. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out, especially if security forces attempt to disperse crowds forcibly. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Seek alternative routes to circumvent related transport disruptions. Do not attempt to navigate around protester-erected roadblocks; allow police to dismantle them before proceeding. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the march route. Heed the instructions of security personnel.