Community Context

Women of the Andes Approximately

55% of the Bolivian population belongs to either Quechua or Aymara speaking indigenous groups descended from the Inca, and another 30% are of mixed white and Amerindian descent. Many Bolivians are subsistence farmers living in difficult-to-access areas in the Andes, where they herd alpaca and llamas, while others live in the barrios of Bolivian cities. Traditionally, indigenous women were the heads-of-household and controlled nearly all of the family's economic activities. Increasingly, however, contact with more "modern" male-dominated society has created tension within indigenous communities. Now, the women of the Andes not only face high levels of discrimination in education and the workplace, but also heightened violence in the domestic sphere. Lack of Spanish education has led to their exclusion from decision-making processes within the country. Alma de los Andes provides these women with a safe space and training in socially and economically empowering activities.

Background on Bolivia

Landlocked and isolated by its location in the Andes Mountains, Bolivia has one of the lowest standards of living in South America. It has suffered through over 190 failed governments since its independence from Spain in 1825. Economic inequality has increased racial tensions between those of European descent and the impoverished mestizos and indigenous peoples who make up over 80% of the population.

Timeline of Major Events

Economic Indicators

51.3% of the population lives below the poverty line.

64% of women participate in the labor force.

Bolivia is one of the poorest and least developed countries in South America. It is the world’s third largest producer of coca, a plant consumed legally in many indigenous ceremonies and for medicinal purposes. However, since coca is used to produce cocaine, Bolivia faces international pressure to destroy its coca farms. Such an action would seriously deplete the livelihoods of many indigenous groups. Finally, lack of foreign investment in the mining industry and high food prices serve as major obstacles to greater economic prosperity.

Vulnerable Populations

Indigenous populations make up the majority of the Bolivian population however they face widespread discrimination. Most of the indigenous population lives in isolated rural areas working low paying jobs such as subsistence farmers, traders, artisans or miners with limited access to basic services such as health care or education. Many speak languages other than Spanish, making it difficult to attend school or obtain higher paying skilled jobs.

Public Health Concerns

It is estimated that 23% of the entire Bolivian population suffers from malnutrition. Proper nourishment is a constant struggle for much of the population. Rural populations lack access to proper sanitation and medical services, making them exceedingly vulnerable to diseases such as malaria.