< Back to all clusters
[POLITICS] · Bolivia · 100 sources

started · updated

Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz declares state of emergency to end weeks of road blockades

After more than 50 days of nationwide road blockades by groups linked to former president Evo Morales, Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz declared a state of emergency (state of exception) on 20 June 2026. The decree authorises the armed forces to support police in clearing blockades, reopening key highways and guaranteeing the supply of food, fuel and medical goods. Paz said, "Bolivians cannot continue to be hostages of blockades that prevent working, studying, receiving medical attention, supplying themselves and bringing sustenance to their homes."

The Legislative Assembly approved the decree within 24 hours, allowing the measure to remain in force for up to 90 days. Authorities reported that active blockades fell from about 50 to roughly 30 as security forces began dismantling obstacles in La Paz, Cochabamba and Oruro. The protests, originally sparked by austerity measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies, have caused severe shortages, price spikes and economic losses estimated at around $3 billion (about 5 % of 2025 GDP). At least 16‑22 people have died, many linked to lack of medical care, and 365 arrests with 37 injuries were recorded.

Opposition groups and several campesino federations rejected the decree, calling it a militarisation of social life, while others announced a temporary pause in their actions. The government pledged continued dialogue and warned that further attempts to destabilise the country would be met with force. The United States offered emergency assistance and warned against attempts to overthrow the elected government.

Sources

3 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago