The largest barriers preventing women’s political participation in Bolivia are harassment, intimidation and physical and psychological violence.

Why do we care: Young women face discrimination and violence when they attempt to participate in political processes, seek employment, and go to school.

How we’re solving this: Organizing an awareness raising film and discussion series in schools that will teach youth how to identify, stand up to, and prevent violence.

Despite new laws attempting to end discrimination and violence towards women, implementation has been poor and cultural attitudes have not shifted along with the laws. Violence continues to affect women’s participation in political, employment, and educational spaces. The largest barriers preventing women’s political participation in Bolivia are harassment, intimidation, and physical and psychological violence. It is crucial that the public understands how violence plays a role in denying women their rights under the law, and that young women are not afraid to pursue their academic and career goals for fear of violence.

Asociación para el Desarrollo integral de la Mujer (SIMBIOSIS) believes that awareness is the first step to reducing violence. SIMBIOSIS will present videos to educate approximately 500 women and girls, between the ages of 10 and 20, on issues of violence against women, how patriarchal values legitimize violence, and the importance of women’s rights. By conducting two workshops in each of eight schools and two training institutes, women and girls will learn how about their equal rights that are protected under Bolivian law. With this knowledge they will be able to identify violence when they see it—in their homes, schools, and communities, and they will be empowered to speak up and demand respect of their rights.

Educating youth by giving them the knowledge and tools to stand up for their rights and those of others is a critical first step towards breaking the cycle of violence and discrimination.