Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuado, begin a nationwide protest

On 20 January 2009 Ecuador's largest indigenous organization, the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Conaie), began a nationwide protest of a mining law it claims exploits Ecuador's mineral wealth and threatens the environment. The protests are slated to occur primarily in the Cayambe area in the northern region, blocking access to the Pan-American Highway. According to early reports, there is relative calm in other areas of Ecuador, with demonstrations occurring sporadically.