Bolivia's Anti-Government Protests Intensify Amid Economic Crisis

Anti-government protests in Bolivia have entered their fourth week, with the government authorizing military deployment. President Paz highlights the economic toll of the unrest, while protesters demand his resignation and an end to the country's compound crisis.

Thu May 28 2026

Bolivia Protests Escalate with Women at the Forefront

Anti-government protests in Bolivia are now in their fourth week, led predominantly by women. Thousands of female farmers marched in the capital La Paz, demanding the resignation of President Paz. Delta Salinas, a Bolivian farmer, expressed the protesters' frustration: 'We're fed up with this president. He must step down and stop making Bolivians suffer. We want peace, not more tear gas.' Another farmer, Marta Poma Luque, asserted their resolve, stating, 'We are not afraid to die. We will give our lives for what we believe in. If they kill us, maybe our children will be free.' The widespread demonstrations highlight deep-seated public discontent.

Deepening Economic Crisis and Government's Stance

Bolivia faces an unprecedented compound crisis. More than 37.2% of the population lives below the poverty line, and international reserves are nearing zero. The economy is expected to shrink by 1.3% to 3.3% this year. President Paz emphasized the economic impact, stating that the 25 days of strikes have cost nearly 600 million dollars, particularly in La Paz and El Alto. However, protesters argue that the government continues to ignore their demands for an end to austerity and rising living costs. The government's decision to approve Congress's vote to repeal limits on the executive's use of emergency orders has further escalated tensions. With neither the government nor the protesters showing willingness to compromise, Bolivia remains locked in a confrontation with no clear resolution in sight.