Colombia: Additional nationwide protests scheduled November 28 – 30 /update 11

Event

Various unions and civil groups have scheduled additional protests, likely to be observed nationwide, for Thursday, November 28, Friday, November 29, and Saturday, November 30. Significant transportation and business disruptions are anticipated in the capital Bogotá and other major urban areas. On Thursday, participants are expected to begin protests at 17:00 (local time) and will also hold a vigil for life and against the murders of victims of the Mobile Anti-Disturbances Squadron(Esmad) against the legitimate and fundamental right of peaceful protests. In Bogota, protesters will depart from the Monumento a la India Catalina and proceed to Plaza de la Paz.

On Friday, protesters will also gather at 17:00 at Parque Paseo de los Mártires and at Plaza de la Paz.

On Saturday, protesters will gather at 09:00 at the Napoleon Perea Recreation Center.

Clashes between protesters and police were reported in Bogota on Wednesday, November 27. Transportation disruptions are likely to continue throughout Bogota. A heightened security presence is also expected in the vicinity of all protests and further clashes cannot be ruled out. 

Context

Several unions and civil society groups have been organizing nationwide protests and strikes since November 21 to protest the policies of President Iván Duque's administration, including the alleged support of unpopular economic plans and the perceived lack of government action to counter killings of human rights activists and rein in corruption. As of November 25, three people have reportedly been killed in protests. Heightened security measures were approved across Colombia in anticipation of the protests, permitting local authorities to implement curfews and restrict civilian movement.

Advice

Individuals in Bogotá and across Colombia are advised to closely monitor developments, avoid all protests and large public gatherings due to potential violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.