Bolivia is currently grappling with severe anti-austerity protests that threaten to paralyze the nation’s largest cities. These protests have emerged in response to President Rodrigo Paz's austerity measures, which include cutting fuel subsidies and implementing policies perceived to favor the wealthy. Despite Paz's recent decision to halve his salary, public discontent has escalated, leading to road blockades and significant shortages of essential goods in cities like La Paz and El Alto. The protests are spearheaded by influential unions and supporters of former president Evo Morales, who previously oversaw substantial economic growth and poverty reduction. Paz's administration, which ended nearly two decades of leftist governance, is now criticized for sidelining Indigenous communities and introducing policies that benefit big businesses. The U.S. has expressed support for Paz, viewing the unrest as a potential coup attempt. The ongoing instability poses challenges for Paz as he attempts to balance the demands of protesters with the expectations of international investors and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).