Bolivia

Bolivia, still the poorest country in South America, has its first indigenous president in nearly two hundred years of colonial independence. Evo Morales was re-elected with a vast majority in December 2009. His governing party MAS holds two thirds of the seats in the Parliament as well as in the Senate and can count on the courtesy of most of the higher judges after the public election for the judiciary in October 2011.

During Morales' presidency, Bolivia has approved a new constitution. The rights of the indigenous population have been expanded and policies of redistribution of wealth for the benefit of the poor are being implemented.
In terms of foreign policy, Bolivia has become a member of the ALBA countries. However, the Morales government has been criticised for its authoritarianism and disregard of fundamental human rights as well as democratic rules. Social conflicts rose in 2010 and 2011 – the government had to withdraw an unpopular rise of petrol prices (end of 2010) that caused widespread protest in the population. In October 2011, the government had to concede to protests from the indigenous population against the construction of a Highway through the national park and indigenous territory TIPNIS.

Data from the UN´s CEPAL shows, that between 2002 and 2009 relative poverty in Bolivia decreased from 62.4% to 54%, absolute poverty from 37.1% to 31.2%.

Bolivia is in the process of political transformation and is faced with the great challenge of building a democratic, multi-ethnic society and establishing a sound balance between collective and individual human rights while improving the living conditions of marginalised parts of the population.

Young people for a democratic future

Solidar Switzerland has been active in Bolivia since 1985. Most of its partners are civil society organisations such as trade unions and grassroots organisations. Solidar Switzerland supports political and material participation of underprivileged groups of the population. Its programmes promote basic democratic rights, human rights, social justice, respect for different-minded people and for the state's accountability to all its citizens. In this context, working with young people is particularly relevant: Cultural events such as theatre and films help them address social issues and encourage active involvement in politics. On behalf of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SDC, Solidar Switzerland implements a programme promoting a democratic political culture, strengthening participation and co-responsibility at municipal level and ensuring compliance with human rights.

Fair working conditions – a key in the fight against poverty

More than half of all Bolivians still live in poverty. Creating jobs as well as fair and decent working conditions are key to reducing poverty. Moreover, democratic participation requires a minimum of material security. Solidar Switzerland therefore cooperates with people in precarious situations such as farmworkers, cane cutters and domestic workers. Solidar Switzerland assists vulnerable workers in their struggle for their rights by providing training, supporting campaigns as well as social dialogue with employers and relevant authorities.

Link to Solidar Switzerlands office in Bolivia (Span.)

 Joachim Merz is Solidar Switzerland's desk officer for Bolivia.