LA PAZ — Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz declared a state of emergency on June 20, 2026, authorizing military and police deployment to clear road blockades. The country has experienced ongoing protests and road blockades for 50 days. Road blockades have disrupted commercial vehicle transit and restricted access to essential supplies such as food, fuel, and medical provisions. The emergency decree requires congressional notification within 24 hours of issuance, and Congress must then approve or reject the state of emergency within 72 hours of notification.

President Paz stated, "I have arranged for the implementation of the State of Exception to free the country's roads." He added, "Bolivians cannot continue to be hostages of blockades that prevent working, studying, receiving medical attention, supplying themselves, and bringing sustenance to their homes."

The demonstrations began in May after President Paz eliminated fuel subsidies in an effort to reduce the federal budget deficit. Protest groups include labor unions, agricultural workers, and affiliates of former President Evo Morales. Union negotiators are requesting wage increases, resolution of fuel and currency shortages, and the resignation of President Paz.

President Paz assumed office seven months prior, concluding approximately two decades of governance by the Movement to Socialism. Last month, he signed legislation authorizing military intervention in domestic conflicts. Bolivia is experiencing a shortage of U.S. dollars and is conducting negotiations with the International Monetary Fund, while inflation has reached its highest level in 40 years. National natural gas export volumes have also declined.

On Friday, President Paz finalized an agreement with the Bolivian Workers' Confederation to address labor grievances. However, rural organizations supporting Evo Morales control transit routes in the Cochabamba region and did not participate in this agreement. In September, he announced a proposed $1.5 billion economic cooperation agreement with U.S. officials, aimed at securing fuel imports.