What Is the Political Climate in La Paz, Bolivia?

La Paz is the de facto capital of Bolivia and, as of 2020, is home to over 2.3 million people. Since its return to democracy in 1982, the city has been a hotbed of political activity. In recent years, it has experienced numerous protests and demands for political reform, making it difficult for the government to effectively rule. This article will look at the current political climate in La Paz and what actions have influenced it throughout the history of the city.

Bolivia’s Shift to Democracy and Its Effects on La Paz

Bolivia’s move to democracy began with then-President Jaime Paz Zamora in 1982. Zamora called for a Constituent Assembly to rewrite the Bolivian constitution. During this process, La Paz became the seat of democracy in Bolivia and was the site of numerous protests, most of which were peaceful. This period saw a great increase in political freedom and became known as the “Alcadevida,” or life of rights, as citizens were encouraged to become politically active.

In 1985, Victor Paz Estensoro was elected president in Bolivia’s first democratic elections since 1942. His presidency saw greater economic opportunity come to La Paz, as well as increased infrastructure and public services. However, those gains came with greater inequality across the country, a trend that continues today.

Prosperity in the 1990s

The 1990s saw economic prosperity come to La Paz, as well as other cities in Bolivia. The city centralised its services, improved public infrastructure, and increased access to healthcare and education. The resulting growth led politicians to focus on the urban elite and their needs, while those living in rural areas outside La Paz were often left behind.

This trend continued until 2005 when Evo Morales was elected president. Though elected with a majority of votes from outside of La Paz (and most of Bolivia’s urban areas) Morales has worked to bring about change for La Paz and other urban centres.

Morales’ Policies for La Paz

Morales has implemented numerous policies in an effort to modernise La Paz and reduce the disparities between it and rural areas. The most notable of these are:

• Universal Medical Care: In 2004 Angola implemented a universal medical care system that ultimately has led to improved health outcomes in La Paz and across the country.
• Infrastructure Investment: Morales invested heavily in public infrastructure in La Paz and other urban centres, improving roads, transportation networks, and access to clean water.
• Cultural Development: Morales invested in local cultural institutions and activities. This includes the restoration of historical buildings, improved access to public spaces, and investment in education and recreational activities.

In addition, Morales has worked to reduce poverty in La Paz by increasing wages for public sector employees as well as providing social benefits for those living below the poverty line.

Political Unrest Since 2019

Since 2019, La Paz has seen numerous protests over the president’s policies, most notably the oil referendum. This referendum saw Morales implement a change to constitutional law that increased government control over oil reserves in Bolivia’s Amazon region. Protesters have argued that this will lead to environmental destruction and lead to further economic disparity between rich and poor. While many protests have been peaceful, there has been an increase in civil unrest as of late, with protests turning violent at times.

Conclusion

The current political climate in La Paz is one of unrest and uncertainty. The city has seen numerous changes over the past few decades, both good and bad. On one hand, many citizens have seen their economic standing improve, greater access to healthcare and education, and more investment in infrastructure and culture. On the other hand, there is now greater economic inequality between rich and poor and increased civil unrest due to disagreements between citizens over government policy. It remains to be seen how La Paz will develop in the coming years, but clearly there is still much work to be done.

An Insider’s Guide to La Paz, Bolivia: Beyond the Political Climate

La Paz is a vibrant and intriguing city, offering much more than just politics and government. As a local, I know the hidden gems that tourists often overlook, and I am thrilled to share them with you. Here is an insider’s guide to La Paz that will allow you to discover the city’s true character.

Local Attractions

While it can be tempting to visit the main attractions like the Witches’ Market or Plaza Murillo, many hidden gems make for fantastic visits. For example, the Calle Jaén Street is a beautiful colonial street lined with museums, art galleries, and cafes. It’s a unique location that will immerse you in the city’s rich culture, history, and architecture. Also, I recommend visiting the Valley of the Moon, a geological wonderland that features otherworldly rock formations. The Cemeterio General is a surprisingly fascinating destination, showcasing impressive mausoleums and gravesites surrounded by the impressive Andes mountains.

Dining Spots

Bolivia is known for its street food, and La Paz is no exception. Make sure to try Salteñas, delicious baked empanadas filled with chicken, beef, vegetables, and cooked potatoes. A unique coffee shop that offers both fantastic coffee and an aesthetic design is Typica Cafe, an excellent place to relax, sip coffee, and enjoy the city’s vibe. For a lovely evening meal, Ali Pacha is an excellent restaurant that offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a beautiful setting.

Cultural Experiences

La Paz is a rich cultural hub, a melting pot of Andean, Spanish, and Aymara cultures. During the winter solstice each year, the city hosts a celebration called La Noche de las Alasitas, meaning the night of the small things. This festival involves the buying and gifting of miniature items that represent the gift giver’s wishes for the recipient. Additionally, the city is filled with museums, like the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Museum of Ethnography. These locations allow visitors to learn more about the city’s history, art, and music, and to understand its cultural significance.

Local History

La Paz boasts a captivating history full of fascinating facts and stories. For example, in the early 19th century, Bolivia’s silver mines were the primary source of revenue for the Spanish Crown. This wealth only extended to a small fraction of the population, leading to a revolution that led to Bolivia’s independence. Visitors can travel back in time and retrace Bolivia’s journey by exploring the city’s high-arched colonial buildings.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, then head over to El Alto. This metropolitan city is the highest major metropolis in the world and is widely recognized for its stunning views of La Paz and the urban atmosphere it presents. Also, a beautiful town called Copacabana, located on the famous Lake Titicaca, can be easily accessed from La Paz. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, walks on the beach, hiking, biking, and more there.

I hope this insider’s guide has excited you about visiting La Paz and experiencing all it has to offer. Whether you decide to explore its unmissable attractions, its delicious cuisine, or its captivating history, La Paz guarantees an unforgettable experience.