Even though they make up 61 percent of the population, Indians in Bolivia have long been relegated at the bottom of society.
But in recent years, indigenous leaders have begun to exercise political power. Last year, they were behind the ouster of former president Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozado.
Of the country's 314 municipalities, 200 have mayors and other officials who are Indian. In rural areas, Indians have taken over by kicking out the "official" government. Some talk of forming their own nation in hopes of exercising greater control over their affairs.
Indigenous leaders are pushing current president Carlos Mesa to take over the country's oil and gas industry, currently run by private companies. But in a Sunday referendum where the Indian turnout was heavy, more than 60 percent of voters agreed with Mesa's plan to expand development. Mesa plans to raise royalties that go to the government.
Get the Story:
Where the Incas Ruled, Indians Are Hoping for Power
(The New York Times 7/17)
pwnyt
A Treasure of the Andes, Ancient Demons Included (The New York Times 7/17)
pwnyt
Bolivians Support Gas Plan and Give President a Lift (The New York Times 7/19)
pwnyt
Bolivians Vote to Boost Control of Gas Reserves (Knight Ridder 7/19)
pwpwd

Politics
Indians in Bolivia seek self-determination
Monday, July 19, 2004
Stay Connected
Contact Us
indianz@indianz.com202 630 8439 (THEZ)
Search
Top Stories
Most Read
1 Film set on Pine Ridge Reservation already called one of the year's best
2 Video: Navajo Code Talker Roy Hawthorne shares his story for veterans project
3 Winnebago Tribe fights back in court after 'attack on sovereignty'
4 Mark Trahant: Trump administration sabotages the treaty and trust relationship
5 HEARTH Act remains popular as tribes assert more control on homelands
2 Video: Navajo Code Talker Roy Hawthorne shares his story for veterans project
3 Winnebago Tribe fights back in court after 'attack on sovereignty'
4 Mark Trahant: Trump administration sabotages the treaty and trust relationship
5 HEARTH Act remains popular as tribes assert more control on homelands
More Stories
BIA recognition decision database now online Pechanga Band votes to retain Macarro as chairman
News Archive
2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000