Human rights defenders in Bolivia have been subjected to acts of intimidation, threats, raids on their offices, confiscation of their property, forced evictions, judicial harassment, interrogations, abductions, armed attacks, ill-treatment, beatings, attempted assassinations and killings. Paramilitary style groups and private armed gangs employed by landowners or those with business interests, are responsible for many of the attacks.

The UN SRSG refers to the existence of “a varied community of human rights defenders which not only comprises of NGOs but also includes social movements and individuals such as lawyers, indigenous leaders, journalists and trade unionists” (E/CN.4/2006/95/Add.5 page 44-45). The rights of indigenous populations, peasants and farmers are of particular concern to human rights defenders in Bolivia, as in many instances they have been forcibly evicted from the land which they claim is rightfully theirs. Landless workers, coca producers and those campaigning for environmental rights have also been the victims of threats and attacks. The rights of women and children are actively promoted and defended. NGOs encounter difficulties and unnecessary delays when applying for registration. There is concern that the Government has not established measures for the adequate protection of human rights defenders who are targeted due to their legitimate human rights activities.