Key facts
- Bolivia is experiencing 50 days of highway blockades by labor unions and indigenous groups, causing at least 14 deaths and severe supply shortages.
- The unrest began in response to President Rodrigo Paz's cuts to fuel subsidies, but has expanded to demands for wage hikes and Paz's resignation.
- Former President Evo Morales, a significant leftist figure, is observing the crisis and considering a return to politics.
- Paz, who has U.S. backing, blames Morales for instigating the protests, while Morales denies this and attributes the unrest to economic hardship.
- The crisis has led to widespread shortages of food, medicine, and fuel in La Paz, with significant economic impact on businesses and hospitals.
Bolivia is grappling with a severe political and economic crisis, marked by 50 days of widespread highway blockades that have paralyzed the country, led to at least 14 deaths, and pushed the government of President Rodrigo Paz to the brink of collapse. The unrest initially erupted due to Paz's decision to slash fuel subsidies to address a budget deficit and a deepening dollar crunch, but has since morphed into broader demands for wage hikes, an end to fuel and dollar shortages, and Paz's resignation.
From his rural stronghold, former President Evo Morales, a powerful leftist figure, is closely watching the situation and has indicated he is considering a return to politics, though he denies actively campaigning or instigating the protests. Morales attributes the 'indigenous rebellion' to economic hardship and criticizes Paz for unfulfilled commitments. Paz, who took office in late 2025 with backing from U.S. President Donald Trump, has blamed Morales for stoking the unrest, a narrative analysts suggest is an attempt to distract from the underlying social issues.
The blockades have severely impacted daily life, particularly in the capital, La Paz, leading to shortages of fuel, food, and essential medicines. Restaurants have been forced to close, and hospitals are struggling to treat patients, with reports of cancer patients dying due to lack of access to care. Morales has called for Paz's resignation and new elections, warning of potential escalation if his movement is excluded from future votes.
Paz has initiated talks with union leaders, seeking to de-escalate the situation and calling for national unity despite diverse viewpoints.