Argentina: Increased security, road closures July 19-21 for Mercosur summit in Mendoza

Event

Local media sources have reported that heightened security measures, including the deployment of some 300 additional riot police, are expected in Mendoza during the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) summit, which began with technical meetings on Monday, July 17, and will culminate with a meeting of heads of states on Friday, July 21. Road closures are expected July 19-21 in the area of the Diplomatic Hotel, Intercontinental Hotel, Park Hyatt Mendoza, and Sheraton Mendoza.

During the same period, the People's Summit, a protest against Argentine President Mauricio Macri and other right-wing governments in the region, is scheduled to take place at the UNCuyo School of Art and Design. Street closures are possible and an increased security presence in the area is likely.

Context

Mercosur is a regional customs union and trading bloc with the purpose of promoting free trade and the smooth movement of goods, people, and currencies. Member states include Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela (who has been suspended since December 2016). Mercosur's associate countries include Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Suriname. Both New Zealand and Mexico are considered observer countries.

Sociopolitical tensions have been on the rise in Argentina since current (conservative) President Mauricio Marci took office in December 2015, with an uptick in anti-government protests and strikes observed in recent months. While the majority of demonstrations in Argentina take place without major incident, larger ones can result in major traffic chaos that can significantly disrupt daily life. Clashes with security forces and other low-intensity violence occasionally occur.

Advice

Individuals present in Mendoza are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, and avoid all protests as a precaution due to the potential for violence.