Diplomatic Statement Condemning Road Blockades’ Harm to Human Rights and Democratic Governance in Bolivia

This statement was issued by the governments of the United States, Argentina, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, and Peru.

We express deep concern over violent road blockades undermining democracy and the rule of law in Bolivia. Ongoing efforts to undermine and overthrow the legitimate, democratically elected government of President Rodrigo Paz pose a serious threat to constitutional order and democratic stability in the country and the hemisphere.

A violent minority seeks to disregard the will of the majority of Bolivians expressed in recent elections, rejects the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue, and has maintained road blockades for over seven weeks, depriving millions of Bolivians of access to food, healthcare, fuel and other essentials. These actions have severely impacted millions of citizens’ daily lives and endangered fundamental rights. Additionally, deaths of Bolivian civilians have been documented due to restricted road access, preventing timely access to medicines, hospitals and health centers. Separately, protesters have injured police officers in the line of duty. Violence cannot subvert the constitutional order.

We support the constitutionally elected government of Bolivia and urge all mobilized groups to prioritize dialogue and negotiation within the established constitutional framework as a fundamental democratic tool.

Defending freedom, democracy and hemispheric security requires sustained commitment and cooperation. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to continue strengthening regional stability and preserving democratic order, standing in solidarity with President Paz’s democratic government and the people of Bolivia.

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