Bolivia: Transport workers announce nationwide strike, blockades Aug. 1

Workers affiliated with the Bolivian Drivers' Confederation (Confederacion de Choferes de Bolivia) announced plans to stage a 24-hour strike and block roads nationwide on Aug. 1. Participating transport workers announced plans to block border crossing points and key thoroughfares; no specific locations for gatherings have been confirmed. The purpose of the action is to denounce a perceived lack of foreign currency and demand that fuel distribution be normalized, among other issues. Urban transport workers are the most likely to join the action; groups representing truck drivers have not confirmed whether they will participate in the strike or associated protests.

Unless averted, the labor action will almost certainly disrupt public urban transport in several cities and may also disrupt the international transport of goods. Significant traffic disruptions are also possible near El Alto International Airport (LPB). Ground transport disruptions on several main thoroughfares are likely. Protesters may also gather outside government buildings in several urban centers, including La Paz. 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.