Panama: Unions call for nationwide protests Aug. 10

Event

Activists affiliated with several unions, including the National Union of Workers of Construction and Similar Industries (El Sindicato Unico Nacional de Trabajadores de la Industria de la Construccion y Similares, SUNTRACS) and the Association of Educators of Veraguas (Asociacion de Educadores Veraguenses, AEVE), have called for nationwide protests from 07:00 Aug. 10. Organizers have called for protests along the main roads nationwide, without confirming specific locations. The demonstrators are denouncing the government's alleged failure to uphold their side of agreements made with several unions in late July, including the promise to freeze the price of fuel and some food products.

Protesters are likely to gather along, and possibly block, large sections of the Pan American Highway, especially around Panama City, as well as along main roads in Veraguas Province. Protests are also possible in front of schools, government buildings, and public squares. Heightened security is likely, as well as significant traffic disruptions around demonstrations. Police may move to disperse protesters, which could prompt confrontations.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Plan on disruptions to transit across Panama and monitor the status of routes. Comply with directives given by authorities.