NDI received funding from the U.K. Department for International Development (DFID) to promote a greater understanding of the linkages between political reform and poverty reduction among key political actors in Bolivia. According to the Latin Barometer and national surveys in Latin America, poverty and inequality are key citizen concerns especially in the Andean region. Understanding the linkages between economic development and democratic government can reveal opportunities to address these concerns. Successful reforms will create incentives for political parties, whether in government or opposition, to develop responsive and sustainable policies that help democracy “deliver” for its citizens, resulting in improved government service delivery and effective economic reform and poverty reduction programs.

Examining these issues, NDI published an assessment report, “The Political Party System in Bolivia 2004-2006: Opportunities for Pro-Poor Reform.” In 2008, NDI used the report findings as the framework for round table discussions with 195 political actors around the country and across the political spectrum regarding the relationship between political reform and poverty-reducing economic growth. NDI will follow-up with participants through its ongoing political party strengthening work as they identify and shape potential reforms to strengthen the linkage between political reform and poverty reduction. This report was based on initial research conducted for a DFID-funded October 2004 assessment, “Bolivia’s Political Party System and the Incentives for Pro-Poor Reform.”

Note: The first link below connects to the English-language version of the article. The second link connects to the Spanish version.