14 Jun 2024 | 04:10 PM UTC
Bolivia: Truckers to strike and block roads nationwide from June 17
Bolivian truckers plan to strike, stage roadblocks indefinitely from June 17. Border, ground transport disruptions are likely.
Workers affiliated with the Confederation of National and International Heavy Transport of Bolivia (Confederacion del Transporte Pesado Nacional e Internacional de Bolivia) plan to stage an indefinite strike and block roads nationwide from June 17. The action is an escalation of a previous 48-hour strike and roadblock campaign on June 3-4, which prompted traffic disruptions in La Paz, Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, Tarija, and Sucre departments. Participating truckers will reportedly 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, among other issues.
Unless averted, the labor action will almost certainly disrupt the international transport of goods and prompt ground transport disruptions on national roads nationwide. Associated protests are likely in cities and rural areas. Police will likely deploy to monitor the 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.
