In 2005, the year Evo Morales was first elected President, Bolivian society and institutions began a process of fundamental change. That election marked a decisive turning point in terms of the recognition and inclusion of the country’s 36 ethnic groups and indigenous cultures. Social and economic reforms have since been undertaken, bringing improvements in the education and health sectors in particular, and helping to reduce the number of people living below the poverty line.
However, despite this progress, Bolivia remains one of the countries with the highest rates of poverty (38.6%) and extreme poverty (16.8%). In addition, the incidence of violence against women and girls is particularly high, as is the number of teenage pregnancies. Inequalities and unemployment persist, and people with disabilities remain marginalised, suffering discrimination and a lack of access to the education system and vocational training. In addition, disability issues are not yet sufficiently taken into account in the country's public policies, which undermines access to services and respect for the rights of people with disabilities.
Bolivia is also regularly affected by natural disasters, and climate change is having a visible impact, particularly on agriculture, and disrupting the country’s economy. This is particularly true of the episodes of drought and flooding that recur periodically in the wake of the El Niño phenomenon.
Number of HI staff: 8
Programmed opened in: 2011
