Bolivia Declares State of Emergency Amid Ongoing Protests
Bolivia Declares State of Emergency Amid Ongoing Protests
Updated at: June 21, 2026 at 01:45 PM
On June 20, 2026, Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz declared a 90-day state of emergency following 50 days of intense anti-government protests.
The unrest was sparked by the government's decision to cut fuel subsidies as the country faces a severe economic crisis and seeks IMF financing.
Protesters, including unions and Indigenous groups, blocked over 100 roads, causing acute shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, particularly in La Paz and El Alto.
The National Chamber of Industries estimates that these blockades caused $3 billion in economic losses.
In response, President Paz authorized the military to clear the barricades and restore supply chains, a move made possible after Congress repealed restrictions on executive emergency powers.
While the government blames political allies of former leader Evo Morales for orchestrating the instability, the opposition denies these claims.
Analysts warn that while military intervention may restore temporary order, long-term stability requires addressing the underlying economic grievances that led to this national crisis.
