Environmental organizations and citizens protested in front of the Congress on April 8 against proposed changes to the Glacier Law. The demonstration began at the intersection of Avenida de Mayo and 9 de Julio, and incidents occurred that resulted in a 33-year-old man being detained for resisting authorities.
The police operation blocked movement so that protesters would gather in front of the Legislative Palace, which led to confrontations with demonstrators. Under the slogan “La Ley de Glaciares no se toca” (The Glacier Law must not be changed), activists argued that the reform threatens 36 water basins and could allow extractive activities in areas currently protected.
Environmental advocates warned that modifying the law could affect access to potable water, which is a basic right protected by the Constitution. Diego Salas from Greenpeace said, “the changes open the door to intervention in strategic freshwater reserves.”
The day’s events were set to continue with a torchlight march and an artistic festival as debate proceeded in the Chamber of Deputies. Protesters planned to remain in the plaza until voting concluded, saying that they believe the reform prioritizes extractivism over protecting natural resources.
