Peru: Union from Machupicchu district, Cusco, announces indefinite strike from Jan. 25

Members of the Machu Picchu Popular Collective (Colectivo Popular Machu Picchu) have started an indefinite strike from 00:01 Jan. 25. While organizers stated they do not plan to block routes as part of the labor action, disruptions due to strike-related protests could affect tourism activities in Machupicchu District, also known as Aguas Calientes. Protesters are gathering outside government buildings in the city of Cusco on Jan. 25 to reject the privatization of ticket sales to local historical sites and demand the resignation of the Minister of Culture. The union called for the strike to reject the privatization of ticket sales to Machupicchu's historical sites. Machupicchu is located around 75 km (47 miles) northwest of the city of Cusco, the capital of Cusco Region.

Protesters could disrupt access to tourist sites to press their demands; sit-in protests are possible near entry points to historical sites. Further gatherings outside government buildings in the city of Cusco are also likely during the strike. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations. Skirmishes cannot be ruled out.