Argentina: Demonstrations, blockades likely to continue in Missiones Province through at least early June /update 4

Protesting public workers, including teachers and medical staff, will likely continue holding demonstrations and blockades throughout Misiones Province through at least early June. Participants are demanding increased pay and better working conditions. Blockades of roads in Posadas and highways throughout the province have occurred, including National Route 12 in Eldorado, Posadas, and near El Alcazar, and National Route 14 in Cerro Azul and San Vicente.

On May 30, demonstrations by active and retired policemen and other protestors continued outside the Posadas police station; however, a group of protesting police officers ended the protest they had held since May 17 after accepting a pay increase. Activists burned tires and blocked nearby roads, including the intersection of Uruguay and Trincheras. Reports indicate that approximately 2,000 people were involved in the action. The National Gendarmerie and Federal Police were deployed to the area; clashes occurred between activists and security personnel. Activists previously broke into the provincial legislature in Posadas on May 16 and clashed with police during a march to the House of Representatives and the house of Governor Hugo Passalacqua May 23.

Demonstrations are likely to continue, particularly in Posadas and other cities throughout the province, especially on roads and near government buildings and public squares. Tight security is almost certain. Protests, especially on highways, will likely cause major transport and business disruptions throughout Misiones and hinder the flow of trade between Argentina and neighboring Paraguay and Brazil. Further clashes are possible.