Bolivian Congress Authorizes Military Deployment to Quell Protests After Weeks of Roadblocks

Bolivia's Congress has authorised the deployment of troops to quell escalating protests, after four weeks of roadblocks that have paralysed large parts of the country. Lawmakers who back the measure say it is essential for restoring normality, but critics warn it could lead to a violent crackdown on demonstrators.

The protests, which began over economic grievances and government policies, have spread across multiple departments, disrupting supply chains, blocking access to essential goods, and fuelling tensions between the government and opposition groups. Roadblocks have prevented food and fuel from reaching some communities, creating shortages and raising the humanitarian stakes.

For Latin America, Bolivia's crisis is a familiar story: a country rich in natural resources but deeply divided along political, economic, and ethnic lines. The gas fields that power the economy are concentrated in one region; the indigenous communities that bear the environmental cost live in another. When tensions boil over, it is often the poorest who suffer most.

The decision to deploy the military is a significant escalation. Human rights organisations have expressed concern that the presence of troops could lead to clashes and casualties, urging both sides to return to dialogue.

Brazil, as Bolivia's largest neighbour and a key economic partner, is watching the situation closely. The outcome of Bolivia's crisis will have ripple effects across the region.

This is Elena Vasquez for Global1 News, reporting from São Paulo. 🇧🇷