Bolivia: Transport workers to hold 48-hour nationwide strike and protests Jan. 19-20

Event

Leaders of the National Transportation Confederation and other transport-sector organizations have called for a 48-hour nationwide strike and protests Jan. 19-20. The work stoppage is the latest to be held over the ongoing issue of bank loan payment deferrals amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and was called after failing to reach an agreement with the government. Members of the National Confederation of Micro and Small Businesses (CONAMYPE) will join the strike and protests; similarly, workers in other sectors may also support the action.

The strike is likely to cause widespread disruptions to transport services; disruptions to business and commercial operations are also possible depending on which sectors adhere to the strike call. Transport-sector leaders in Cochabamba and Santa Cruz have stated that they will not join the strike and protests; nonetheless, some transport disruptions remain possible.

As part of the labor action, striking drivers plan to disrupt traffic by blocking roads nationwide. During a related strike Jan. 12, protesters blocked interdepartmental and inter-municipal highways around the country, causing major traffic disruptions; similar disruptions are possible Jan. 19-20. Within cities, demonstrations could also take place in prominent city squares or near government buildings in major urban areas. Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor all major protests. Clashes are possible if police attempt to disperse those who block roads.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution and do not attempt to cross any protest blockades. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in the nearest secure location. Confirm all transport arrangements. Consider alternative methods for shipping critical freights on Jan. 19-20.