Argentina: Labor activists to demonstrate in downtown Buenos Aires Aug. 17

Event

Activists from a variety of labor groups, including the General Confederation of Labor (Confederacion General del Trabajo, CGT) and the Combative Trade Union Plenary (Plenario Sindical Combativo, PSC), plan to demonstrate in downtown Buenos Aires Aug. 17. Organizers have reportedly called for the protests for various reasons, including to denounce the country's political leadership and recent price hikes on goods as well as to demand increased salaries and benefits. Participants from the CGT will gather at the Obelisco at 15:00 before marching toward the Plaza del Congreso. Members of the PSC plan to hold a separate demonstration at the Plaza de Mayo. Similar protests are also possible in other cities across Argentina.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased police presence around the rallies as a precaution. Transport and business disruptions are likely in protest-affected areas. Clashes cannot be ruled out, especially if security forces attempt to forcibly disperse crowds.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of clashes. Plan for localized disruptions in downtown Buenos Aires Aug. 17; consider taking alternative routes to circumvent rally-affected areas. Confirm appointments. Comply with directives given by authorities. If clashes occur, take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building.