Colombia: Nationwide protests and strikes likely to continue through at least mid-May /update 5

Event

A series of disruptive anti-government protests that erupted in areas across Colombia during late April will likely continue into at least mid-May. Demonstrations have been occurring in all major cities nationwide, with thousands of protesters frequently blocking major roads, marching on government buildings, and clashing with security forces. Additionally, members of the National Strike Committee (Comite Nacional del Paro), an umbrella organization that has led the demonstrations, has called for a new nationwide strike on May 12.

Over 30 people have reportedly died during the protest-related violence, with many of the deaths reported in the city of Cali. Hundreds of people have reportedly been injured. Additionally, numerous vehicles, private businesses, and police stations have been set ablaze or otherwise vandalized by demonstrators.

While clashes between demonstrators and police, and acts of looting and arson, have decreased in recent days in most of the country, violence has continued to erupt in the city of Cali. Shootings were reported May 9 between armed civilians and members of indigenous organizations. Due to the ongoing violence, authorities in Valle del Cauca Department, where Cali is located, have ordered the closure of all access routes leading into the department until at least May 15, except for cargo transport and security personnel.

Officials estimate that 10,000 police officers and 2,100 military personnel are deployed in the Valle del Cauca department. In Cali, southern areas of the city, including the Ciudad Jardin and La Luna neighborhoods, as well as Siloe in the west, have reported most of the protest activity; however, demonstrations have been widespread, with activists also building roadblocks along routes leading to Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO) northeast of the city.

Protests will likely continue to take place in major squares, outside government buildings, and along major thoroughfares. Large cities and intercity highways continue to be the areas most affected by the unrest. In Bogota, the demonstrations have largely focused on Plaza de Bolivar. Frequent roadblocks and clashes have also been reported in Bosa, Usme, and Tunjuelito, as well as along multiple roads on the outskirts of the capital.

In Medellin, protests occur routinely at Parque de los Deseos, as well as in the Robledo neighborhood and near university buildings. In Barranquilla, multiple rallies have been reported in Plaza de la Paz. There have also been related demonstrations, clashes, and roadblocks in Cundinamarca, Caldas, Santander, Norte de Santander, and Boyaca.

Transport disruptions due to protester roadblocks have begun resulting in shortages of basic goods. In Bogota, markets have reported delivery delays impacting up to 50 percent of their merchandise; at the same time, 13 cities, including Cali, Neiva, Pasto, Pereira, Tunja, Villavicencio, and Yopal, are reporting fuel shortages. Severe fuel shortages are also occurring in the city of Cali amid the unrest, prompting authorities to limit refueling of private vehicles to specific days, times, and filling stations.

Further clashes between demonstrators and security forces are likely. Police and military personnel could deploy water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. The use of live ammunition cannot be ruled out. Associated labor strikes may limit services in public offices, healthcare facilities, and essential businesses. Acts of looting and vandalism are likely, especially during hours of darkness.

Context

The unrest began on April 28 in opposition to a tax reform bill supported by President Ivan Duque's administration. While the government ultimately withdrew the draft law, protests have continued against other government policies, including the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other issues.

President Duque and leaders of the National Strike Committee were scheduled to meet May 10. The encounter may ease tensions in the coming days and lead to an agenda to end the demonstrations. However, protests will likely continue through at least mid-May.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Do not attempt to cross any protester roadblocks; allow police to clear them before proceeding. Monitor local media for updates on the status of roads, as protest locations may not be announced in advance. Exit the area at the first sign of any confrontation.