Bolivia : Public Policy Options for the Well-Being of All

The purpose of this book is to contribute to the debate on how to confront the challenges that Bolivia faces today. It is composed of a series of studies on the current reality of Bolivia and has been developed in conjunction with national and international public policy experts. The studies present a diagnostic by sector, a summary of the main challenges, and public policy recommendations aimed at meeting these challenges. After many years of severe institutional crisis, Bolivia is reorienting its development strategy and closing the gap between the country's problems and effective solutions. The new government is confronting the challenge of building a state that is more inclusive and effective. Its initiatives to achieve that objective include the Constituent Assembly, the introduction of public policies that modify obligations and rights, and efforts designed to revitalize the participation of the state in the national economy. This is a turning point from which a new Bolivia will emerge. Nevertheless, a variety of risks may prevent positive results, even when intentions are good. Bolivia can take a step forward to proactively integrate itself within the global market, or it can prolong, or even exacerbate, the stagnation that has hindered its economic and social development for many years. The authors are all committed to the goal of contributing ideas about what can be done to help the country grow equitably, with a transparent and efficient government that provides improved social services to its population and they are confident that Bolivia has the ability to achieve it.