LATIN AMERICA
Guatemala,
October 10, 2000 – U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in
Guatemala should be aware that on October 10, 2000, demonstrators belonging
to a Guatemalan farmer's organization set up roadblocks along major highways
throughout the country to protest economic conditions in Guatemala. Similar
demonstrations are expected to continue through October 15. While most
demonstrations in Guatemala are peaceful, some have turned violent in
the past. Americans in Guatemala are advised to avoid demonstrations,
and should consider deferring non-essential road travel until the demonstrations
have ended. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City for updated information.
Belize,
October 1, 2000 – Americans living in or planning travel to Belize,
northern Guatemala and the Mexican portion of the Yucatan Peninsula should
monitor news reports about the movement of Hurricane Keith. Due to this
hurricane's extensive flooding, Americans in Belize should maintain contact
with the U.S. Embassy and consider departing the country as soon as it
is safe to do so. The U.S. Department of State has authorized the departure
from Belize of dependents of American personnel and of American personnel
in non-emergency positions. Peace Corps volunteers in Belize have been
moved to central locations.
Bolivia,
September 29, 2000 – Bolivia has recently experienced widespread
civil strife, which has resulted in the death of at least eight Bolivian
citizens over the last two weeks. The disturbances began with protests
by coca leaf growers in the Chapare region of the country, but have spread
to rural areas across Bolivia. Throughout Bolivia, groups protesting various
government policies have blocked highways with stones, tree limbs, and
trash. Protesters have attacked motorists attempting to evade the blockades,
and in one instance killed a motorist. There have been some clashes between
police attempting to clear the roads and protesters. Travel to any of
the usual tourist attractions, such as Copacabana on Lake Titicaca or
Sorata (a favorite destination for backpackers) is dangerous. All overland
shipments to La Paz have been blocked or delayed and all roads leading
to the city are also blocked, as rural protesters attempt to isolate the
capital. While Americans are not specifically targeted, Americans traveling
in Bolivia are strongly advised to avoid overland travel. Air travel to
Bolivia's major cities has not been interrupted but Americans are urged
to monitor local news sources and to consult with the Embassy before commencing
travel.
Peru,
September 22, 2000 – Peru has recently experienced sporadic political
demonstrations in Lima and other major cities. In addition, a national
truck strike has caused occasional confrontations between strikers and
authorities. Intercity passenger buses are expected to join the strike
on September 23. These events have the potential to disrupt normal functions
throughout Peru and to be used by political parties to stage additional
marches and demonstrations. While marches and demonstrations in recent
months have been largely peaceful, they have the potential to turn violent.
There has been no evidence of anti-American sentiment in recent demonstrations.
Nevertheless, Americans in Peru are advised to monitor local newscasts
closely, minimize travel within the country and avoid demonstrations and
crowds.
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