Argentina: Heightened security likely in Buenos Aires ahead of and during VII Summit of Heads of State and Government of CELAC Jan. 24

Event

Heightened security is likely in Buenos Aires ahead of and during the VII Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (Comunidad de Estados Latinoamericanos y Caribenos, CELAC) that is scheduled in the capital Jan. 24. More than 20 regional leaders will attend the event. Increased security is likely throughout much of the city from at least Jan. 22, when the government officials will begin to arrive. Authorities are particularly likely to increase security near the Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) in Ezeiza, Jorge Newbery Airfield (AEP) in the Palermo neighborhood, and the Sheraton Hotel in the Retiro neighborhood of Buenos Aires, where the CELAC summit will take place.

Demonstrations are likely near the hotel in Retiro, as well as near government offices in downtown Buenos Aires. Notably, activists have called for at least two protests to denounce the scheduled presence of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at the event; participants will gather at the Torre Monumental at 16:00 Jan. 22 and 10:00 Jan. 24.

Transport and business disruptions are likely Jan. 22-24 in areas subject to heightened security and protest activity, especially in the Retiro neighborhood. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Allow additional time to reach destinations in Buenos Aires, especially in Retiro, Jan. 22-24. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the event site. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.