Expanding Freedom and Democracy.
Hundreds of protesters with signs and flags in front of a capital building.
People march against alleged electoral fraud after the relection of Evo Morales. Sucre, Bolivia. October 2019. Editorial credit: Devin Beaulieu / Shutterstock.com

Bolivia

Bolivia is a democracy where credible elections have been held regularly. However, electoral manipulation in 2019 prompted mass protests and violence that led to the resignation of long-time president Evo Morales, with new general elections expected in 2020. Child labor and violence against women are persistent problems, independent and investigative journalists face harassment, and the judiciary is politicized and hampered by corruption.

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Freedom in the World — Bolivia Country Report

Bolivia is rated Partly Free in Freedom in the World 2020, Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.
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President of Bolivia, Evo Morales Ayma, addressing the opening of the 55th session of the Commission on Narcotics

Countries in the Spotlight

Countries in the Spotlight features countries that experienced important developments in 2019 that affected their democratic trajectory, and deserve special scrutiny in 2020. In Bolivia, protesters helped oust President Evo Morales after he claimed a fourth term in a severely compromised election, and a new vote is expected this year. View the full Freedom in the World report to see the other Countries in the Spotlight. 
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News & Perspectives on Bolivia

Bolivians Reject Extending Presidential Term Limit

Press release

February 21, 2016

Latin America Shows That Democratization Is Possible Anywhere

Perspectives

August 3, 2015