Bolivia’s President Paz has declared a state of emergency in response to weeks of nationwide road blockades and protests crippling the country’s economy. The declaration grants the president expanded powers to deploy the military and police to restore order. Demonstrations, largely led by labor unions, began nearly six weeks ago, causing shortages of essential goods like fuel, food, and medicine, and bringing parts of the economy to a standstill. Protesters are demanding President Paz’s resignation and wage increases. The move follows a deal with one major union to end their participation in the protests, though others remain committed to continuing the blockades. The crisis stems from the government’s decision in May to eliminate fuel subsidies, a measure intended to address a deepening economic crisis and budget deficit. The unrest has included the storming and looting of government buildings, resulting in approximately ninety arrests.