Bolivia has declared an “energy and social emergency” over fuel shortages, rising inflation, and a lack of dollar reserves. The announcement comes as center-right President Rodrigo Paz faces mounting economic and social turmoil just two months into his presidency. They will be allowed to use international prices, following the recent removal of fuel subsidies. Protests and roadblocksThe emergency declaration comes after Bolivia was practically paralyzed for six days last week due to protests and roadblocks against an economic austerity package that Paz issued by decree in December. It eliminated fuel subsidies, gave special benefits to those planning large investments in local natural resources, and froze public workers’ salaries, among other measures.

Source: Bueno Aires Herald January 15, 2026 23:50 UTC