Bolivia: Violent protests in Roboré November 12-13

Event

Police forcibly dispersed protesters during the evening hours (local time) on Tuesday, November 13, in Roboré (Santa Cruz department), after local civil society groups erected makeshift barricades on a national highway. Local reports indicate clashes broke out after security forces attempted to dismantle makeshift barricades and disperse protesters, who subsequently set fire to a police bus. Protesters also set fire to a police depot in the city the day before. According to organizers, demonstrators are protesting deforestation efforts and settlements in the El Paquió municipal reserves and the Tucavaca Valley conservation area. A heightened security presence is expected in the area in the coming days. Traffic disruptions are also possible on the segment of RN-4 connecting Santa Cruz and Puerto Suárez.

Context

Several civil society and labor groups, including the Civic Committee of the Bloque Chiquitano and the local government in Roboré, launched an indefinite strike on November 13 after violent protests the day prior. Organizers have threatened to continue their strike until the National Institute of Agrarian Reform (INRA) annuls the settlement project.

Advice

Individuals in Bolivia, particularly in Roboré, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, and avoid public demonstrations as a precaution.