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Bolivia teeters on brink after month of deadly unrest
President Rodrigo Paz declared Bolivia at a "breaking point" on Wednesday as anti-government demonstrations, now in their fourth week, have left seven dead and hundreds detained. Protesters, spearheaded by unions and indigenous organizations, have erected roadblocks nationwide, triggering severe shortages of essential goods and paralyzing large swaths of the country.
Root causes of the crisis
Demonstrators are demanding the reinstatement of fuel subsidies, the reversal of austerity measures, and the resignation of Paz, who assumed office six months ago amid an economic downturn. The unrest initially erupted in late April following a proposed land reform that small-scale farmers feared would enable large landowners to acquire their properties.
Though the government insisted all sales would be voluntary, powerful farmer organizations remained unconvinced and launched highway blockades. Paz later withdrew the reform, but by then, other disaffected groups had joined the protests, amplifying the movement's demands.
Fuel subsidies scrapped, tensions escalate
The government's decision to eliminate long-standing fuel subsidies-aimed at addressing shortages and inflation-has further stoked public outrage. The move has driven up living costs, while roadblocks have exacerbated fuel shortages, creating a self-perpetuating crisis.
Economic losses from the protests are estimated at over $50 million daily, according to government figures. Paz has appealed for dialogue and order but has not ruled out invoking "constitutional instruments" to dismantle the blockades.
Congress grants Paz emergency powers
On Tuesday, Bolivia's Congress approved legislation making it easier for the president to declare a state of emergency and deploy the military to restore control. Supporters of the measure argued that "violent" groups must not dictate terms to an elected government, while opponents warned it could inflame social tensions further.
Previous concessions fail to calm unrest
Paz has attempted to quell the protests through a series of conciliatory gestures, including a cabinet reshuffle, salary cuts for himself and ministers, and the formation of a council to engage with marginalized sectors. However, these steps have so far failed to ease the widespread anger.
"Those wanting to destroy the nation will have to face me and the full force of the constitution," Paz stated earlier this week.
What lies ahead
The government's next moves remain uncertain, but the prospect of military intervention looms as protests show no signs of abating. Analysts warn that without meaningful dialogue, the crisis could deepen, further destabilizing an already fragile economy.
