Bolivia

Basic Indicators

Source: UNICEF: The State of the World's Children Report

Population: 9,863,000 (2009)
National language: Spanish, Quechua
Per capita income: US$ 1,630 (2009)
Life expectancy: 66 years (2009)
% of population using
improved drinking water sources: 86% (2008)
% of population using
adequate sanitation facilities: 25% (2008)
Under 5 Mortality Rate: 51/1,000 live births (2009)

Bolivia is the only country in the world with two capital cities: La Paz is home to the executive branch and the national legislature, while Sucre houses the judiciary branch of the government.

Roughly three times the size of Montana, Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America. It borders Peru and Chile to the west, Argentina and Paraguay to the south, and Brazil to the north and east. Deep social and economic divisions between the rich and poor have led to a long tradition of political instability and widespread problems in development.

Bolivia is the world’s third-largest producer of coca and cocaine, and is under substantial international pressure to curtail this industry. Other important industries include soy farming and the extraction of natural gas, both of which are among Bolivia’s most important exports.

Plan works with over 48,500 children and families in Bolivia, helping to promote health, education, and increased standards of living and to teach sustainable farming methods in rural areas. Except in emergency situations, Plan does not provide direct assistance. Instead, we help communities develop, grow and, ultimately, support themselves.

Hear from the children

An essential part of Plan's work is empowering children to discuss the issues that matter to them and to take part in decisions that affect their lives. To help you learn about these issues, the children in Plan communities have put together a series of publications called "See Our World": Read what the children have to say about their lives.