By María Josefina Arce

Fifteen years ago, Bolivia became a Plurinational, free, independent, sovereign, democratic and intercultural State, endorsed in the new Constitution of 2009, approved in a referendum by more than 61% of Bolivians.

It recognized the diversity of the South American country and the prerogatives of all citizens, including the indigenous native peasant nations and peoples and Afro-Bolivian communities, populations marginalized by successive governments.

The right of these ethnic groups to self-determination and territoriality, cultural identity, religious beliefs, practices and customs, and their own worldview would be constitutionalized.

This recognition would be given after the MAS, Movement Towards Socialism, came to power in 2006, which would make a difference and work to satisfy the legitimate aspirations of all Bolivians, without exclusions.

Undoubtedly, one of the relevant aspects of the foundation of the Plurinational State, which took place during the mandate of the now former President Evo Morales, would be social inclusion. Discriminated sectors such as women would achieve their participation in the political and electoral system of the nation.

A series of social programs would also be implemented to reduce poverty, illiteracy and ill health. To guarantee citizens' access to essential human rights.The figures confirm the achievements of the Plurinational State. Between 2005 and 2018, extreme poverty was reduced from 38.2% to 15.2%, while poverty decreased from 60.6% to 34.6% in the same period.Older adults, pregnant women, children and young people have benefited throughout these years, with support bonds, the extension of health care and education to the entire national territory.

Other initiatives such as Mi agua, launched in 2011 to contribute to improving the living conditions and health of the population by increasing access to and quality of drinking water and sanitation, also stand out.The transformation of Bolivia into a Plurinational State meant welfare, equality of all people, nations, peoples and communities.

And although the coup d'état of 2019 against the then president Evo Morales intended a return to the past, the rise again of MÁS to power in 2020 has allowed to continue working in favor of all Bolivians.