07 Jul 2014 Indigenous Voices from Bolivia; an Opportunity to Speak Out

Uruguay

Inter Press Service is a news agency present in more than 100 countries that concentrates on coverage of disadvantaged and excluded social groups and peoples, especially in southern countries. Its news reaches over 250 publications and hundreds of radio and on line news sites in 15 Latin American countries. IPS Latin America office editorial policy gives special attention to the preservation of indigenous cultural values, incorporating gender equality and the participation of women. In Bolivia, the historical marginalisation of the majority indigenous population remains a widespread phenomenon, despite the election of the country’s first indigenous president a few years ago. IPS wants to increase coverage of topics important to Bolivia’s indigenous communities, their experiences, culture and traditions through the eyes of indigenous journalists. Indigenous women and men who are journalists live a constant tension between activism and professional journalistic practice. Eight of them received training, practical experience and professional editorial accompaniment in producing high quality reports. The quantity and quality of reporting about matters of concern to Bolivia’s indigenous communities will grow, and the greater visibility will help increase social cohesion.

Final Report