Bolivia Protesters Keep 45 Road Blockades, Costing $2.8 Billion as Calls Grow for Paz to Quit
Updated
Updated · Financial Times · Jun 17
Bolivia Protesters Keep 45 Road Blockades, Costing $2.8 Billion as Calls Grow for Paz to Quit
3 articles · Updated · Financial Times · Jun 17
Summary
Forty-five road blockades remain across Bolivia after nearly 50 days, with hardline protesters rejecting talks and insisting President Rodrigo Paz resign despite some barricades being dismantled.
The shutdown has already cost an estimated $2.8 billion, driving up fresh food prices, draining fuel supplies, disrupting hospitals and leaving transport snarled across much of the country.
Paz has avoided a forceful crackdown and is betting fatigue and internal splits will weaken the movement, though he has cleared the way for a state of exception that could expand powers to remove blockades.
Many protesters are former Paz voters angered by persistent 20% inflation, fuel shortages, market reforms seen as pro-business and a technocratic cabinet they say excludes labor and Indigenous groups.
The unrest is deepening a broader economic crisis: Bolivia still faces a 9% fiscal deficit, low dollar reserves, stalled investment reforms and an IMF-predicted 3.3% contraction this year.
Can IMF-backed austerity save Bolivia's economy, or will the reforms ignite an even greater civil conflict?
With dialogue failing, is Bolivia headed for a negotiated peace or a violent state-enforced crackdown on protesters?
As Bolivia's crisis deepens, who stands to gain control of its immense and critical lithium reserves?
Bolivia in Crisis: Economic Collapse, Mass Protests, and Political Turmoil in 2026
Overview
In mid-June 2026, Bolivia faces a severe national crisis as widespread protests and blockades disrupt the country, leading to significant humanitarian and economic consequences. The government has acknowledged losses and fatalities from the conflict, while critical shortages have prompted Argentina to launch a weeklong humanitarian airlift to deliver essential supplies. In response, the Bolivian government is taking a dual approach—enforcing firm legal measures and expressing willingness for dialogue. President Paz has signed a new law to address the unrest, aiming to protect the country while also inviting social organizations to discuss their demands and seek a peaceful resolution.