Bolivia has declared a state of emergency after nearly two months of roadblocks and unrest that disrupted economic activity across the country, reports Bloomberg.
President Rodrigo Paz stated he has issued a directive to implement emergency measures to unblock roads and restore the flow of goods and services.
In a post on social media X, Pas noted that blockades deprive people of the ability to work, study, access medical care, and purchase essential goods.
The announcement of the state of emergency came just hours after the government reached an agreement with Bolivia's main trade union organization—the Bolivian Workers' Center (COB)—in an attempt to end the protests.
Blockades have led to shortages of food and medicine in several regions of the country, as well as disrupted transportation networks.
According to the National Chamber of Commerce, economic losses related to the unrest amounted to about $3 billion.
Earlier this month, Pas signed a legislative act that expands the government's powers to implement emergency measures aimed at addressing public disorder.
The administration is also negotiating a funding agreement with the International Monetary Fund.
Government officials reported that negotiations on a program worth around $3 billion are nearing completion.
Pas emphasized that the state of emergency is aimed at restoring normal economic activity, not imposing additional restrictions on citizens.
He also added that the government remains open to dialogue with groups willing to negotiate, as efforts continue to unblock roads and stabilize supplies.
In recent years, Bolivia has faced recurring political and economic tension: authorities are seeking additional funding amid budget pressure and shortages of goods.