Bolivia: Roadblocks and protests in La Paz June 12

Event

Residents of 13 neighborhoods in La Paz have established roadblocks on Monday, June 12, in protest of Territorial Technical Inspection Act 233.  Blockades have been reported on Avenida Periferica, Paraguay Bridge, Villa Crossing, Villa Fatima, Pasankeri, Calle 17 de Obrajes, Llojeta, La portada, the old road to El Alto, Pasoskanki, and the road to Alto Obrajes.  Police have been deployed to ensure major highways are kept clear.

The  roadblocks, organized by the Federation of Neighborhood Boards (Fejuve) have not impacted the city center, however further blockades are possible in the coming days.

Context

Territorial Technical Inspection Act 233 states that social housing projects of less than four floors and built on slopes will not be inspected by the La Paz municipality, sparking health and safety concerns among residents.

Bolivian civic groups and unions frequently erect roadblocks as a form of protest. The country's mountainous terrain means few roads connect major cities and therefore roadblocks serve as especially effective bargaining tools in negotiations. Violence at roadblocks has been reported in the past.

Advice

Individuals present in La Paz are advised to keep abreast of the situation via local media outlets, to avoid all protests, and to never attempt to cross a roadblock without authorization due to the potential for violence. Allow for additional time to reach local destinations if traveling in affected areas.