Bolivia: Nationwide demonstrations March 20 amid ICJ hearing /update 1

Event

Various gatherings are set to take place on Tuesday, March 20, throughout the country in support of Bolivia’s territorial claim over the Atacama corridor. The navy has called for “Blue Tide” (Marea Azul) demonstrations, the largest of which will take place in the city of La Paz. There, marchers will gather beginning at 15:00 (local time) at three points - the Estado Mayor, Plaza Abaroa, and Plaza Gualberto Villarroel - before converging on Plaza Francisco. Smaller demonstrations are to be anticipated in other departmental capitals, smaller cities, and border areas. An increased security presence and associated transportation disruptions are possible. 

Context

In 2013, Bolivia filed a lawsuit at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), demanding that Chile cede to Bolivia 120,000 km² (46,000 mi²) of territory, including 400 km² (155 mi²) of coastline. Part of the territory that Bolivia claims was lost to Chile following the War of the Pacific (1879-83), which left the country landlocked. A hearing regarding the issue is currently ongoing at the ICJ in The Hague (March 19-28).

Advice

Individuals present in Bolivia are advised to prepare for associated traffic disruptions and avoid all protests as a precaution.