Bolivia: Protests and blockades likely to continue to cause disruptions in several departments through at least mid-February /update 3

Protests and blockades are likely to continue to cause disruptions in several departments in Bolivia through at least mid-February. As of Feb. 2, the unrest has led to significant traffic disruptions as well as food and fuel shortages as protesters in multiple parts of the country continue to block thoroughfares, including those that connect eastern and western regions. The blockades have particularly impacted Cochabamba Department, located in central Bolivia. Clashes have occurred amid the protests, including between demonstrators and security forces; several people have been killed and dozens of others have been injured since the unrest began on Jan. 22. The protesters are supporters of former President Evo Morales, affiliated with the United Confederation of Peasant Workers of Bolivia (Confederacion Sindical Unica de Trabajadores Campesinos de Bolivia, CSUTCB), and they demand the resignation of several magistrates.

Counterprotests are also possible in the coming days as opposition and business groups denounce the blockades. Transport workers blocked routes in central La Paz on Feb. 1 in a related demonstration. Authorities will likely take contingency measures to transport essential goods in the coming days as freight trucks remain unable to pass through roadblocks; however, some shortages are likely to persist as long as protesters block the country's main highways.

Heightened security is likely around protest sites. Significant ground transport disruptions are probable in affected areas. Further clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.