The Bolivia state of emergency has been declared by President Rodrigo Paz after nearly 50 days of nationwide protests and road blockades disrupted economic activity and essential supplies. The move gives the government broader authority to restore order and reopen key transport routes.
President Paz announced the measure in a national address, saying the situation had reached a critical point. The emergency decree allows the deployment of armed forces to help remove blockades and ensure the movement of goods and services across the country.
Protest groups have blocked major highways, leaving trucks stranded and causing shortages of food, fuel and medicines in several regions. The disruptions have particularly affected the capital, La Paz, where supply chains have come under increasing pressure.
The unrest began after the government moved to reduce long-standing fuel subsidies as part of efforts to address fiscal challenges and a worsening shortage of US dollars. Although authorities later introduced measures to ease economic concerns, public dissatisfaction continued to grow.
Labour unions and social organisations have expanded their demands beyond fuel prices, calling for higher wages, improved access to foreign currency, an end to shortages and, in some cases, the resignation of President Paz. These issues have contributed to sustained nationwide demonstrations.
The government recently reached an agreement with the Bolivian Workers’ Confederation in an attempt to ease tensions. However, several rural groups aligned with former president Evo Morales were not part of the negotiations and have continued their protests, particularly in the Cochabamba region.
President Paz said the Bolivia state of emergency is intended to protect citizens, restore essential services and safeguard democratic institutions. He stressed that the measure is aimed at ending disruptions and ensuring that food, fuel and medical supplies can once again move freely throughout the country.
