The findings of an NDI report on the links between political reform and poverty reduction in Bolivia were the framework for round table discussions in late February that brought together 195 political actors from around the country and across the political spectrum, including local government representatives as well as party and civil society leaders
NDI has examined how democratic reforms in Bolivia can help political parties to develop responsive and sustainable policies that help democracy “deliver” improved government services as well as economic reform and poverty reduction programs. Bolivia’s economy and the distribution of wealth throughout the country continue to be of great concern to its citizens. According to Latinobarómetro, a 2007 regional public opinion survey, two thirds of Bolivian respondents felt that wealth was distributed unjustly.
With funding from the U.K. Department for International Development (DFID), NDI conducted a two-year assessment of the linkage in Bolivia between political reform and poverty reduction. The Institute’s findings and recommendations were documented in a 2007 report, The Political Party System in Bolivia 2004-2006: Opportunities for Pro-Poor Reform.
Participants in the round table discussions noted that a deeper understanding of existing incentive structures will help them carry out necessary internal party reforms and help parties to act as catalysts to make changes that will help the poor. Through its ongoing political party strengthening work in Bolivia, NDI will follow-up with participants as they attempt to identify and shape potential reforms to strengthen the linkage between political reform and poverty reduction.
