Colombia Braces for 48-Hour National Strike

Colombia is getting ready for a big 48-Hour strike this week. Workers, students and community groups are planning to protest together. They are upset about problems in the country like fewer jobs and less help from the government. The strike will likely affect big cities like Bogotá, Medellín and Cali and could stop buses, close schools and slow down other services.

People are angry about new tax rules and budget cuts. They believe these changes make life harder for poor and working families. Police are getting ready too. More officers will be on the streets to keep things safe. The protest leaders say they want to be peaceful but in the past some protests have turned into fights.

Many people in Colombia hope this strike will help them get better services, more jobs and fair treatment. Teachers, doctors, bus drivers and Indigenous groups are all planning to join. President Gustavo Petro has asked for talks but many people want him to do more. Experts say these next two days could be very important for the future of Colombia.

As the strike starts people in Colombia and around the world are watching to see what will happen next.