Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz declared a state of emergency after six weeks of protests and road blockades demanding his resignation. The crisis began in May when Paz scrapped fuel subsidies, leading to price spikes and nationwide demonstrations by labor unions and supporters of former President Evo Morales.
France will continue targeted fuel subsidies in June due to volatile prices, announced government spokesperson Maud Bregeon. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will present the aid details on Thursday, focusing on exposed sectors and low-income individuals. Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard noted 90 million euros have already supported farmers.
Southeast Asian governments are implementing remote work policies for civil servants to reduce energy consumption amid soaring costs triggered by the Iran war. Indonesia's Friday work-from-home policy, introduced April 1, is estimated to save 6.2 trillion rupiah (US$361.5 million) in fuel subsidies. The Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia have similar measures. However, analysts warn that reduced petrol consumption from fewer commuters could be offset by higher household electricity use as air conditioners run all day.
