Colombia: Unions call for nationwide strike January 21 /update 20

Event

Unions and civil society groups are calling for nationwide strikes to continue on Tuesday, January 21, to protest the policies of President Iván Duque's administration. The National Committee of Unemployment in Colombia announced on Tuesday, January 14, that multiple organizations have agreed to participate in the rallies on January 21. Organizers are calling for cacerolazo protests to be held in the main public squares across the country starting at 17:00 (local time). A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around all demonstration sites.

Further nationwide strike and protests are expected in the coming months. The National Committee of Unemployment is planning to hold another national meeting on Thursday, January 30, and Friday, January 31, to plan future mobilizations. According to a statement from the group, a nationwide general strike is likely to be held in March.

Context

Several unions and civil society groups have been organizing nationwide protests and strikes since November 21 to protest the policies of President Iván Duque's administration, including the alleged support of unpopular economic plans and the perceived lack of government action to counter killings of human rights activists and rein in corruption. Heightened security measures were previously approved across Colombia in anticipation of the protests, permitting local authorities to implement curfews and restrict civilian movement.

Advice

Individuals in Colombia are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, monitor the situation, and obey instructions issued by local authorities.