Though rich in mineral and energy resources, Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America. One recent study estimated that 63 percent of the population of Bolivia lives in poverty, with 38 percent in conditions of extreme poverty. Children and women are among those most affected by high national levels of poverty.

The Bolivian cities of La Paz and El Alto experience high rates of child sexual assault. Prosecutors in these cities may be pursuing at any given time more than 1,000 cases of sexual violence against children. The Bolivian public justice system often lacks the capacity to hold perpetrators accountable, and this lack of enforcement emboldens perpetrators and keeps children vulnerable to repeated abuse.

In October 2006, IJM Canada opened the Field Office in La Paz, Bolivia in partnership with IJM. The  Field Office (IJM Bolivia) assists children in La Paz and El Alto who are victims of sexual violence. IJM Bolivia’s team investigates the victims’ respective situations, and intervenes before authorities to promote protection and assist in the prosecution of those responsible for the abuse. IJM Bolivia also provides aftercare for the victims and their immediate families as needed. IJM staff evaluate the victim and develop a restoration plan that includes components such as medical attention, psychological therapy, and support and preparation for hearings and trials.

The Bolivia Field Office also educates the church and other community groups about our obligation to seek justice, and equips church and NGO leaders to confront injustice in their communities. IJM Bolivia is seeking to create social demand that pressures the public justice system to carry out their mandate to work for the poor.

+ To learn more about IJM's work in Bolivia, read Paloma's story.