Bolivia and Ecuador impose states of emergency amid protests and security turmoil

Bolivia's right‑wing President Rodrigo Paz declared a nationwide state of exception, sending the army onto the streets as workers, peasants, miners, teachers and unions staged the largest protests in two decades. The unrest was sparked by a proposed agrarian‑reform law that would allow communal Indigenous lands to be re‑classified for sale, alongside rising food prices and broader economic grievances. Demonstrators demand Paz's resignation, lower food‑basket costs, tax relief for small farmers and greater public investment in health, transport and basic services.

In Ecuador, President Daniel Noboa issued a new state of exception covering the entire country, citing "grave internal upheaval" linked to escalating organized‑crime violence. The decree uniquely authorises the deployment of foreign forces to support Ecuadorian security units, though details on troop numbers or origins were not provided. Human‑rights groups warned of potential abuses, while the government asserts the measure is legally bounded and essential to restore order.