Mexico: Additional protests likely in Oaxaca city through at least mid-March /update 3

Event

Activists will likely continue to protest in downtown Oaxaca through at least mid-March. The action started Feb. 14 as student protesters began camping in the city's Plaza de la Constitucion, known locally as the "Zocalo." Demonstrators have engaged in a number of disruptive activities such as hijacking city buses and using them to block major thoroughfares, including Federal Highway 190. On March 2, protestors from various groups set up additional blockades, vandalized buildings, and burned tires throughout the city. Activists could stage sit-ins and street marches in various parts of the city over the coming days.

Two of the main groups driving the protests are the student-based Normalistas and the Communist organization Sol Rojo (Red Soul). The Normalistas have stated that they intend to protest until the government supports their education and guarantees over 600 jobs for their graduates. Sol Rojo demands higher wages for workers, pay for unionized professors, and for the government to solve the murders of their members.

Authorities are will almost certainly deploy increased security near any demonstrations that may materialize in the future. Clashes between activists and security forces are possible. Transport and business disruptions are also likely in parts of the city where gatherings take place.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-government building. Seek alternate routes while roads near protest are blocked. Do not attempt to drive through protester roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them instead before proceeding. Allow additional time to reach destinations near potential protest locations. Heed the instructions of security personnel.