Colombia: Union announces February 21 Bogotá protest amid nationwide demonstrations Feb. 21-Mar. 25 /update 23

Event

The National Strike Committee is calling for several nationwide demonstrations on Friday, February 21, Sunday, March 8, Sunday, March 16, and Wednesday, March 25.

On February 21, the CUT union is planning a protest in the capital Bogotá to mark the fourth month of the first initial nationwide opposition protest in November 2019. Participants plan to gather at 09:00 (local time) at the Parque Nacional. The union also called on its supporters to take to the streets in all regions.

On March 8, the Committee is scheduled to hold demonstrations to mark International Women's Day, while the March 16 events will demand protection for ecosystems across the country. Organizers did not immediately announce details regarding exact meeting times or locations. Finally, on March 25, organizers are planning a nationwide strike. Bogotá will likely see the largest gatherings.

A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of all marches and protests.

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