22 Jun 2024 | 07:35 PM UTC
Bolivia: Truckers threaten to launch indefinite strike and block roads nationwide June 27
Bolivian truckers plan to strike, stage roadblocks indefinitely from June 27. Border crossing, ground transport disruptions likely.
Truck drivers affiliated with the Bolivian Chamber of National and International Transport (Camera Boliviana de Transporte Nacional e Internacional, CBT) plan to stage an indefinite strike and block roads nationwide from June 27. The action is an extension of a broader strike and roadblock campaign that prompted traffic disruptions in La Paz, Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, Tarija, and Sucre departments earlier in the month. Participating truckers may also block border crossing points. The purpose of the action is to denounce a perceived lack of foreign currency and demand that fuel distribution be normalized; truckers are also demanding that problems within the customs service be corrected and that the Minister of Public Works resign.
Unless averted, the labor action will almost certainly disrupt the international transport of goods and prompt ground transport disruptions on national roads across Bolivia. Associated protests are likely in cities and rural areas. Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor any such demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and police are possible, especially if police attempt to disperse demonstrators to reopen roadways forcibly.
As a precaution, avoid all protests. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow for additional transport time throughout Bolivia. Consider delaying nonessential transport until the protests end. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them before proceeding. Reconfirm business appointments. Heed the instructions of security personnel.
