Bolivia faces a deep crisis due to blockades while international sports move forward
Bolivia marks 41 days of intense conflicts and road blockades that are severely affecting the population. Economy Minister José Gabriel Espinoza reported that the economic damage is so severe it can only be compared to the effects of major natural disasters. This situation has generated great concern throughout the country due to product shortages and the heavy impact on the daily lives of citizens.
Amidst this tension, the national government has directly asked former president Evo Morales to help pacify the country and to present himself before the authorities. The government accuses Morales of being behind the mobilizations to impose his ideas by force. At the same time, citizens in town hall meetings held in the cities of La Paz and Sucre have demanded that a state of exception be declared and that immediate legal action be taken against the former leader.
The situation on the streets remains complicated, as various social sectors, such as peasants and members of the Bolivian Workers' Center, prepare a massive march toward the city of La Paz. However, not all citizens support these pressure measures. Recently, many residents of La Paz cheered and supported the work of the Police after they dispersed groups blocking the roads, calling for respect for democracy and an end to the economic losses.
In conflict zones, specific incidents have been reported that show the gravity of the situation, such as the release of an Army officer who was being held by blockaders in San Julián. On the other hand, the crisis also affects those trapped outside the borders; the Consulate in Puno managed to secure a donation of medicine for more than 650 Bolivian drivers who have been stranded on the highway between Desaguadero and La Paz for 42 days due to the closures.
Despite the social problems, some institutions are trying to continue their technical and administrative work. The Constitution Commission and the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) are coordinating the necessary aspects to launch a new call to elect the country's magistrates. Meanwhile, in the productive sector, sugar cane producers are reporting irregularities in diesel sales, claiming they do not receive enough fuel for their work despite having all the necessary permits.
Finally, in the international arena, sports offer a respite with the start of the 2026 World Cup. The South Korean national team begins its journey in the tournament facing the Czech Republic at the Guadalajara Stadium. This match is especially significant because it represents the last opportunity for several historic Korean players, such as Son Heung-min, to shine in a World Cup event before making way for new generations of footballers.