Peru: Protests planned in Arequipa December 15 /update 7

Event

Community members have set additional protests to oppose the Tia Maria mining project throughout Arequipa on Sunday, December 15. Although times and exact locations were not announced, roadblocks, protests, and marches can be expected across the region.

A heightened security presence, along with significant traffic disruptions, are expected in the vicinity of all protest sites. Roadblocks cannot be ruled out.

Context

Residents of the Arequipa and Islay provinces and workers nationwide have been holding strikes and demonstrations in protest of a government mining project since mid-July, expressing concerns for the mine's environmental impact. The protests have produced notable transportation disruptions, including road blockades. Aside from calling for the end of the mining project, protesters are also calling for President Martin Vizcarra's resignation and a new constitution.

Advice

Individuals in the Arequipa province are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any public demonstrations as a precaution, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation and business disruptions.