Bolivian Coca Growers’ Unions Join Protests Against Fuel Subsidy Cuts
The coca growers’ unions in Bolivia have announced their support for the ongoing protests against Decree 5503, which was passed by the government of President Rodrigo Paz to address the country’s fiscal crisis. The decree eliminates fuel subsidies, leading to a sharp increase in fuel prices. According to the main Bolivian media, the president of the six federations of “cocaleros” of the Tropic of Cochabamba, Wilma Colque, has called a meeting to define the next initiatives and confirm participation in marches and mobilizations to obtain the repeal of the decree.
Concerns Over the Decree’s Impact
Colque stated that “it’s not just the increase in fuel, but more than a hundred items that harm the country and put its natural resources at risk.” The decree, promulgated on December 17, not only revokes subsidies on petrol and diesel but also provides for accelerated procedures for investments and tax and customs breaks. While the government has introduced some compensatory measures, including a 20% increase in the minimum wage and the strengthening of social bonuses, the coca growers’ unions and other protesting groups argue that the law is unconstitutional as it bypasses the prior consultation of communities and the parliamentary vote on contracts relating to natural resources.
Ongoing Protests and Government Response
The protests, which have already been marked by clashes with the police, continue to gain momentum with the support of miners, farmers, and rural teachers. A hunger strike involving union leaders and miners’ families is also underway in La Paz. Despite the growing unrest, the executive has reiterated its commitment to the decree, claiming that the subsidy system favored corruption and smuggling. The government’s stance has led to concerns among the protesting groups, who argue that the measures will have a devastating impact on the country’s economy and natural resources.
International Context and References
The situation in Bolivia is being closely watched by international observers, who are concerned about the potential consequences of the decree on the country’s stability and economy. For more information on the ongoing protests and the government’s response, readers can refer to credible sources such as Here