Chile: Disruptive protests possible in cities nationwide March 1

Event

Activist groups will likely stage disruptive protests in major Chilean cities, especially Santiago, in support of a variety of causes on March 1. Although no organization has announced specific plans for demonstrations, the day marks the end of the traditional summer vacation period and typically sees a major increase in vehicular traffic; left-wing activists have historically drawn attention to their agendas by launching unannounced and unauthorized demonstrations that block roads to further disrupt traffic on the date. In recent years, protesters have also demonstrated near and in metro stations in Santiago, causing even greater disruptions to transport throughout the city.

Police will deploy throughout Chile's major cities on March 1 in an effort to minimize potential disruptions. Nevertheless, demonstrators may successfully cause significant transport delays. Clashes are possible, especially if police attempt to forcibly disperse protesters.

Advice

Allow additional time for travel in cities across Chile on March 1. Heed the instructions of security personnel. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them instead. If violence occurs, immediately seek shelter in a non-governmental building.