Bolivia: Transport and business disruptions likely in areas across country amid widespread protest activity May 20

Transport and business disruptions will likely affect areas across Bolivia over the coming hours as demonstrators are blocking highways and roads in several locations throughout the country May 20. The protesters, who are largely led by transport workers, are demonstrating against a perceived lack of foreign currency as well as to demand the revocation of a controversial decree that regulates property transactions. The following highways were experiencing major disruptions as of the afternoon of May 20:

• National Route 1: Highway blocked in Jatita, Oruro Department

• National Route 4: Highway blocked in Juchus Huaylla and Estancia Takhata, Oruro Department, as well as in Montero, Santa Cruz Department

• National Route 5: Highway blocked in Estancia Khelkhata, Potosi Department

• National Route 9: Highway blocked in Nueva Jerusalen, Santa Cruz Department

Additionally, in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Santa Cruz Department, protesters have reportedly blocked the Tercer Anillo Interno, a major thoroughfare. In La Paz Department, protesters have staged a march from El Alto to La Paz. Related protest activity has also been reported in Cochabamba. Further protests and road blockades are possible in cities and rural areas over the short term.

Police will likely deploy to monitor the demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and police are possible, especially if police attempt to forcibly disperse demonstrators and reopen blocked roadways.