18 Jun 2021 | 04:31 PM UTC
Argentina: Protests planned at access points throughout Buenos Aires June 18, with many likely to end at Ministry of Health and Social Development
Protesters in Argentina staging day of unrest June 18 at access points to Buenos Aires; transport disruptions likely throughout the city.
Event
Some 40,000 demonstrators are scheduled to protest throughout the City of Buenos Aires June 18. The protesters will likely block roads leading into the city and may clash with police. Related unrest is likely at access points to the city from surrounding Buenos Aires Province as well as at the Ministry of Health and Social Development, located within the city at Avenida 9 de Julio between Avenida Belgrano and Avenida Moreno. At least one major protest has already occurred at the Old Pueyrredon Bridge in the Avellaneda neighborhood, and other events are reportedly beginning in Retiro, Barracas, and on Avenida San Juan.
Protest events in the north, south, and western extremes of the city are likely to gradually converge at the Ministry of Health and Social Development in the city center, as protester demands of the government have primarily targeted the Ministry.
Context
The day's unrest will bring together around 40 groups that have been pressing for more economic and social assistance from the government, including health workers, leftist political groups, and organizations representing individuals living below the poverty line. Negotiations between the groups and the government have generally failed, although activists have won certain concessions, such as one-time bonus payments for those already receiving certain government assistance. Protester groups had previously reduced their activities due to a recent COVID-19 case wave that affected the country, although they had staged similar days of unrest in February and April.
Advice
Expect significant transport and business disruptions throughout the city, particularly at access points along the border with Buenos Aires Province and near the Ministry of Health and Social Development in the city center. Avoid all protests where possible; clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out. Continue to monitor unrest and consequent disruptions via local media.
