AGP Executive Report

Humanitarian Cooperation: Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez decorated 478 international rescuers and 36 search-and-rescue dogs from 12 countries, including a Bolivian team, after the June 24 earthquakes, and sent thanks to Bolivia for its support. Bolivia Politics: Ex-President Evo Morales denied terrorism and violent rebellion accusations tied to anti-government protests and roadblocks, saying the case is politically motivated as tensions rise. Wildlife & Environment: Two Andean condors poisoned after ingesting contaminated carrion in Toro Toro are recovering at Bioparque Agroflori and could return to the wild in about three weeks. Regional Security & Tech: An Israeli government-focused cybersecurity firm says election wins by Trump-aligned leaders across Latin America, including Bolivia, may boost demand as governments modernize defenses. Economy Watch: Gold purchases by central banks rose in May, adding a net 41 tonnes, with demand still strong despite recent price declines. Peru Election: Conservative Keiko Fujimori was declared winner of Peru’s presidential runoff, taking office amid concerns over crime and political instability.

Bolivia Politics: Ex-President Evo Morales denied terrorism and violent rebellion accusations tied to anti-government protests and roadblocks, saying the case is politically motivated as economic hardship fuels unrest. Wildlife & Environment: Two Andean condors poisoned after ingesting contaminated carrion in Toro Toro (Cochabamba) are recovering at Bioparque Agroflori and could be released back to the wild in about three weeks. Regional Diplomacy: Mercosur’s 68th presidential summit in Asunción issued a special declaration backing Argentina’s “legitimate rights” in the Falklands sovereignty dispute, with Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay calling for a renewed UN approach to bilateral talks. Amazon Protection: Cafod says further action is needed to protect the Amazon, warning that new rules targeting illegal deforestation must be designed carefully to avoid loopholes that let harmful supply chains slip through. Economy & Currency: Reports highlight Bolivia’s shift away from a 15-year dollar peg as the government seeks to stabilize the economy amid public anger. Humanitarian & Security: International dignitaries paid tribute in Tehran to Iran’s late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as funeral ceremonies begin, with delegations including figures from multiple countries including Bolivia.

Bolivia’s Currency Shock: Bolivia’s government moved to end a 15-year dollar peg, shifting to a more flexible exchange rate as anger simmers and a state of emergency follows weeks of protests. Protests and Accountability in Santa Cruz: The Civic Committee for Santa Cruz filed a complaint with prosecutors against former President Evo Morales and other labor and campesino leaders over alleged crimes tied to the 53-day mobilizations demanding President Rodrigo Paz’s resignation. Wildlife Conservation Breakthrough: Bolivia’s historic jaguar release effort advanced after the rescue center CIWY rehabilitated Yaguara, orphaned during the 2024 wildfire season, and released her into Noel Kempff Mercado National Park—an early sign of progress for big-cat conservation. Regional Trade Diplomacy (Mercosur): Mercosur leaders meeting in Paraguay reaffirmed bloc unity and launched new trade talks with Japan, with Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz attending as the bloc also looks toward deeper Asia engagement. Amazon “Flying Rivers” Under Threat: A new report warns that deforestation pressures in Brazil’s Amazon could disrupt moisture flows that sustain rainfall across southern Peru and northern Bolivia, urging protection of key forests and public forests from road-driven clearing.

Mercosur Summit in Paraguay: Leaders at the 68th Mercosur heads-of-state meeting reaffirmed bloc unity and pushed new trade talks, including negotiations with Japan, while also flagging internal EU-deal tensions and the need to modernize integration. Regional Security Push: Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz urged a new South American security “architecture” to tackle cross-border organized crime and drug trafficking, calling for cooperation on strategic intelligence and democratic defense with clear goals and deadlines. Bolivia’s Conservation Breakthrough: A historic jaguar release effort in Bolivia saw Yaguara, raised after the 2024 wildfires, rehabilitated and released into the Noel Kempff Mercado national park—an early sign of progress for big-cat conservation. Bolivia in the Spotlight: The Santa Cruz Civic Committee filed a complaint with prosecutors against former President Evo Morales and other social leaders over alleged armed uprising and terrorism tied to the 53-day protests. Amazon “Flying Rivers” Threat: A new report warns that deforestation and road development in Brazil’s Amazon could disrupt the moisture flows that feed rainfall across southern Peru and northern Bolivia.

Bolivia–Environment & Wildlife: A rescued jaguar, Yaguara, is finally released from the CIWY rehabilitation center into Noel Kempff Mercado National Park after nearly two years of care following wildfire orphaning, a rare step that could help restore the big cat’s future in shrinking habitats. Bolivia–Justice & Politics: The Santa Cruz Civic Committee filed a complaint with prosecutors accusing former President Evo Morales, COB leader Mario Argollo, and campesino leader Vicente Salazar of “armed uprising” and related crimes tied to the 53-day protests against President Rodrigo Paz. Bolivia–Economy & Protest: President Paz declared a state of emergency after 50 days of protests over austerity cuts and privatization, as anger grows over the government’s economic shock measures. Regional–Mercosur: At Mercosur’s summit in Paraguay, Bolivia’s Rodrigo Paz pushed for a regional security architecture against organized crime, while leaders also debated EU trade fallout and Mercosur’s push toward Asia. Venezuela–Disaster & Diplomacy: Twin earthquakes have killed thousands and left tens of thousands homeless, with international aid and solidarity efforts continuing as response operations expand.

Mercosur Summit in Paraguay: Uruguay’s Yamandú Orsi took over the bloc’s rotating presidency and vowed to “modernize” Mercosur while pushing ahead with the EU deal, but leaders left the meeting without resolving how EU export quotas are split—Paraguay’s Santiago Peña called it a “bitter taste” and demanded fairer distribution. Security and crime fight: Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz urged a new South American security “architecture” with cooperation on intelligence and border control as organized crime and drug trafficking “operate without borders.” Bolivia–Venezuela aid: Bolivia sent 20 specialized rescuers and six tons of humanitarian supplies to help after Venezuela’s twin earthquakes, with operations planned for a week. Bolivia politics under pressure: Reports describe growing street unrest challenging President Rodrigo Paz’s new right-leaning government, amid protests and a state-of-emergency backdrop. Chilean press freedom: Chile’s court convicted a judge and a general for spying on investigative journalist Mauricio Weibel, a major ruling for freedom of expression.

Bolivia-Venezuela Aid: Bolivia sent 20 specialized rescuers and 6 tons of humanitarian supplies to Venezuela after the June 24 twin earthquakes, with operations planned for seven days and coordination for the return of up to 60 Bolivian citizens. Bolivia Politics & Security: A new report warns President Rodrigo Paz’s government is facing major security pressures—narcotrafficking and illegal mining—linked to the more permissive era under Evo Morales, complicating the response amid unrest. Mercosur Trade Push: Mercosur launched negotiations for an economic partnership with Japan at its summit in Paraguay, while the bloc still failed to settle internal EU quota distribution; Lula also urged talks with China. Peru Election Shockwave: Peru’s electoral authorities confirmed Keiko Fujimori as president after a razor-thin runoff, deepening the region’s rightward political shift. Corruption Probe in Bolivia: Gabriela Zapata, former Evo Morales’ ex-lover and a former executive tied to major Chinese state contracts, was arrested in an influence-trafficking investigation. Venezuela Deportees Tragedy: Reports describe U.S.-deported Venezuelans being housed at a hotel in La Guaira that collapsed during the quakes, leaving families searching for missing relatives.

Currency Shock in Bolivia: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg and moved to a flexible exchange rate, setting the official rate at 9.73 bolivianos per dollar after weeks of dollar shortages and unrest, with President Rodrigo Paz saying the change aims to bring dollars back and reduce uncertainty. Protests and Order: The shift comes amid a wider crisis marked by road blockades and a general strike that authorities cleared under a state of emergency, but with demands still unmet. Peru Election Fallout: Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz congratulated Peru’s president-elect Keiko Fujimori after the official count confirmed her narrow runoff win, pledging to strengthen integration and cooperation. Bolivia Court Ruling: Bolivia’s Supreme Court upheld a BOB744 million (US$108m) compensation order against Soboce in an unfair competition case involving actions tied to its former shareholder role in Fancesa. Regional Health Focus: PAHO launched a new toolkit to help healthcare workers identify and support children and adolescents affected by violence across the Americas. Venezuela Quake Tragedy: Families of Venezuelans deported from the US are searching for answers after twin earthquakes toppled a government hotel holding deportees, raising questions about withheld phones and documents.

Exchange-Rate Overhaul: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg, moving to a flexible, market-based system as the Central Bank set a new official rate of 9.73 bolivianos per dollar, after months of dollar shortages and parallel-rate spikes that fueled unrest. Politics and Justice: President Rodrigo Paz again warned that “jail will soon come” for former leader Evo Morales amid arrest-warrant claims tied to human trafficking and alleged roles in violent protests. Maternal and Child Health: In Cuba’s Ciego de Ávila, official figures show about a quarter of registered pregnant women face nutritional problems, including anemia, while infant malnutrition affects 4.5% of children under one year. Regional Diplomacy: Bolivia’s Paz congratulated Peru’s president-elect Keiko Fujimori, signaling renewed focus on integration and bilateral cooperation. Humanitarian Crisis Link: A Reuters report says Venezuelans deported from the US were among those killed when a hotel collapsed after twin earthquakes, raising questions about how deportees were processed and housed. Sports/World Cup: Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar is fit but not expected to start as the Seleção faces Japan in the World Cup round of 32.

Currency Reform: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg and will move to a flexible exchange-rate system, setting a new official reference rate at BOB 9.73 per dollar from June 29 after the central bank updated its website—an effort to restore stability amid dollar shortages and falling reserves. Politics & Protests: President Rodrigo Paz again warned that “jail will soon come” for former president Evo Morales, amid ongoing tensions over blockades and demands for Paz’s resignation. Regional Sports Spotlight: Neymar returned to Brazil’s World Cup squad after a calf injury and is expected to play more than 15 minutes as Brazil prepares for a Round of 32 clash with Japan. Bolivia’s Economy Under Pressure: The peg exit comes as Bolivia seeks an IMF financing program of at least $2.5 billion, with the parallel market having signaled a weaker boliviano for months.

Bolivia Economy: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg and will move to a flexible exchange-rate system, with the central bank overseeing the shift as the government seeks stability amid dollar shortages and a parallel market; the official rate was updated to about 9.73 bolivianos per dollar, signaling a major devaluation. Bolivia Protests: Despite a protest ban and emergency measures, coca growers in the Chapare region loyal to Evo Morales say “the struggle continues,” preparing to reinstate roadblocks and rejecting President Rodrigo Paz’s crackdown. Bolivia Politics: President Rodrigo Paz renewed threats that “jail will soon come” for Evo Morales over trafficking allegations and alleged links to violent protests, while also warning he would not feel safe if Morales lived nearby. Venezuela Disaster: After twin earthquakes devastated parts of northern Venezuela and Caracas, El Salvador’s Bukele offered aid and acting President Delcy Rodríguez coordinated support, as the Red Cross launched an emergency appeal for relief in La Guaira and Greater Caracas. Colombia Politics: Colombia elected its first “outsider” president, Abelardo de la Espriella, winning a razor-thin runoff margin of 0.96% and promising a conciliatory transition.

Bolivia Economy: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg and will move to a flexible exchange-rate system, with the central bank overseeing the shift as the government seeks stability amid dollar shortages and a parallel market; the official rate was updated to about 9.73 bolivianos per dollar, signaling a sharp devaluation and setting the stage for an IMF-backed financing push. Protests & Governance: After weeks of unrest tied to the economic crisis, President Rodrigo Paz authorized a “declaration of exception” to restore order, while coca growers in the Chapare region—backed by Evo Morales loyalists—said the “struggle continues” despite the protest ban. Regional Sports & Events: Bolivia was forced to withdraw from the FIA/CODASUR Rally, with Paraguay stepping in to host the 4th round in July. World Cup Notes: Neymar returned for Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, and Scotland’s coach Steve Clarke resigned after elimination. Humanitarian Watch: Sudan warned that its RSF conflict could spill over regionally as external support prolongs the war and worsens a major humanitarian crisis.

Exchange-Rate Overhaul: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg and will move to a flexible exchange-rate system, with the central bank managing the shift as the government seeks stability amid dollar shortages and an IMF financing push. Public Order Measures: President Rodrigo Paz authorized a “declaration of exception” allowing police and military to restore order after weeks of unrest tied to economic grievances and Evo Morales supporters. Protests in Chapare: Despite the protest ban, coca growers in the Chapare region say “the struggle continues,” signaling roadblocks could return. Regional Shockwaves: Venezuela was hit by powerful twin earthquakes, with major casualties and widespread damage prompting Red Cross emergency appeals and international aid mobilization. World Cup Fallout: Uruguay’s World Cup exit deepened into controversy, including reports their charter flight home was cancelled after a winless campaign. Wildlife Spotlight: Rare Amazon “ghost dog” sightings from trail cameras renewed attention on Bolivia-linked biodiversity research.

Monetary Overhaul: Bolivia ended its 15-year dollar peg and moved to a flexible exchange-rate system, devaluing the currency as the central bank sets a new official rate (9.73 bolivianos per dollar) amid dollar shortages and falling reserves, with the government citing stability, competitiveness, and balance-of-payments goals while talks with the IMF reportedly target at least $2.5 billion. Protest Crackdown Reality Check: Despite a protest ban and a state of emergency meant to clear roadblocks, coca growers in the Chapare region say “the struggle continues,” signaling unrest may persist even as shortages ease elsewhere. Regional Shockwaves: International aid efforts for Venezuela’s twin earthquakes ramped up, with the Red Cross launching a major emergency appeal as casualties and missing people figures continue to rise. Energy Costs & Unrest Risk: Analysts warn that even after oil prices eased, months of higher energy costs have already strained household finances, keeping civil unrest risks elevated across emerging economies including Bolivia.

Bolivia Protest Standoff: Bolivia’s state of emergency to ban protests and deploy the army hasn’t stopped coca growers in the Chapare from defying President Rodrigo Paz, with Evo Morales loyalists warning they’ll restart roadblocks and demand Paz’s resignation. Energy Crisis & Policy: Protesters in La Paz are escalating against a proposed Electricity and Renewable Energy Law that would end ENDE’s monopoly and open tenders to private firms, as shortages and inflation fuel calls for Paz to step down. Corruption Probe in Focus: A Bolivian court investigation into the Plus Ultra case is expanding after a UDEF report alleges former Spanish PM José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero used political influence to favor Peru’s Gloria Group and its SOBOCE cement interests. Lithium Watch: A new analysis highlights lithium’s “white gold” boom, pointing to Bolivia’s role in the Lithium Triangle and the wider push for battery minerals. Regional Shock: Venezuela’s twin earthquakes have triggered massive rescue efforts and international aid, with Bolivia among countries expressing solidarity and offering help.

Bolivia Politics: The opposition Alianza Libre plans to push a Senate petition to create a commission investigating alleged interference by former Spanish PM José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero in Bolivia, tied to payments of 200,000 euros linked to a Peruvian business group, as police reports circulate. Bolivia Energy & Protests: Bolivia’s government is moving ahead with a new Electricity and Renewable Energy Law that would open the market to private competition, as protests over energy privatization and rising living costs continue to pressure President Rodrigo Paz. Regional Humanitarian Aid: After Venezuela’s twin earthquakes killed at least 235 people and injured thousands, countries including Bolivia have signaled solidarity and aid, while international relief efforts expand. Energy Prices & Social Risk: A Reuters analysis warns that even if oil prices fall, the damage from earlier energy shocks is already fueling unrest risk across emerging markets, including Bolivia. Lithium Economy: A Hibbs Institute report highlights Bolivia’s role in the “Lithium Triangle” and the growing push for investment and jobs around battery minerals.