10 Oct 2019 | 05:48 AM UTC
Colombia: Unions to join student strike October 10 /update 1
Unions and civil society groups join nationwide student strike on October 10 and plan further actions on October 17 and November 21; associated protests and disruptions expected
Event
Leaders of the Unitary Central of Workers (CUT) union have announced that workers will also participate in the nationwide protests and general strike organized by student organizations on Thursday, October 10. Demonstrations are scheduled to be held in cities across Colombia, including in Bogotá. Students are planning to gather from 09:00 (local time) at the National University square and at other universities before marching to Plaza de Bolívar. Organizers plan to arrive at Plaza de Bolívar by 14:30. A heightened security presence and traffic disruptions are anticipated around all protest sites.
The CUT also announced that it will organize nationwide general strikes on Thursday, October 17, and Thursday, November 21. Commercial and transportation disruptions, as well as associated protests, are expected during the strikes.
Context
Students said that they are demonstrating to defend the interests of public education, and are calling for the government to fulfill its 2018 budget promises. Labor unions are also striking to protest labor reforms, corruption, and for the government to meet its agreements with the educational groups.
Advice
Individuals in Colombia, and especially in Bogotá, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.
