The Peruvian government declared a 60-day State of Emergency over the weekend in the Peruvian province of Islay in response to intensified and violent protests against the controversial Tia Maria mining project. Arequipa area residents charge the mega project will have negative effects on the local environment and agricultural production. Rising protests in recent days left one demonstrator dead, four wounded, and over 50 arrested. Social organizations are calling for a general strike throughout southern Peru for Wednesday and Thursday in solidarity with the Arequipa protests, with other actions being contemplated nationwide. Rael Mora reports from Lima, teleSUR
