IRI Supports Voter Education Campaign for Gas Referendum

July 19, 2004

In October 2003, ethnic tensions, economic stagnation, and a controversial gas exportation plan led to a bloody civic uprising and the ouster of Bolivia’s president. Then Vice-President Carlos Mesa Gisbert took over the reins of the executive, and in an effort to appease civic demands, promised a national referendum on the gas issue. The outcome of this exercise will be a decisive factor in Bolivia’s short term stability. Despite this, the July 18 referendum has been met with much controversy as the date draws near. The discontent is due in large part to an informational vacuum surrounding the issue. Most Bolivians have limited understanding of the referendum and its origins, purpose and possible outcomes.

IRI is conducting an educational outreach program to teach Bolivians the basics of the referendum. A series of educational forums was held in collaboration with the Bolivian Association of Political Science. National radio programs have provided a venue in which government officials, local leaders and civil society representatives can constructively discuss the referendum. IRI has also provided the National Electoral Court with educational pamphlets, the organization of informational assemblies, and the airing radio spots promoting the referendum in Spanish, Aymara and Quechua. These efforts have clarified the referendum for thousands of Bolivians, and provided validity to the democratic exercise.

IRI Bolivia will continue these civic education activities as the country prepares for municipal elections in December 2004. Recently passed legislation will allow for civic groups to field candidates for the elections, however most groups have limited knowledge of the technical requisites involved and no experience in candidate selection or campaign management. IRI will provide training that will allow these civic associations effective participation in the upcoming electoral activities.

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