Reflections on the 200th Anniversary of Bolivia’s Founding

The year 2025 marks an extraordinary milestone in the history of our country: the bicentenary of Bolivia’s statehood. On August 6, we will celebrate two centuries of independence, which began with the liberal call of Chuquisaca in 1809 and was consolidated by the creation of the Republic in 1825. This is a propitious moment to reflect on the path we have taken and the challenges we still face as a nation.

The bicentennial is a reason to celebrate, but above all, it should give priority to the necessary and urgent analysis of our own history. We must understand the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us and who created Bolivia as we know it. Looking back on history will make us value our identity and strengthen the cohesion of our society.

In this context, the role of the media and historians is crucial. The material we produce and disseminate must not only celebrate our achievements but also encourage us to question and improve our current realities. History should not be seen as a series of past events but as a guide to building a more just and equitable future.

To achieve this goal, the Chuquisaca government recently hosted a meeting of journalists from all over the country in the state capital. This was a valuable opportunity to agree in our gatherings and academic work on the need to save fundamental values: detachment, solidarity and patriotism.

While it is difficult to ignore the current misfortunes, it is necessary to put forward the necessary agenda so that the country can find a better path. First, democratic stability is essential to strengthen institutions and guarantee a transparent and fair electoral process.

Second, we must continue to advance inclusion and representation so that all sectors of society can actively participate in political decisions that will affect future generations.
Third, corruption is a scourge that robs us of our present and future. Effective transparency and accountability policies must be implemented; restoring citizens’ trust in institutions is essential.

On the economic front, Bolivia must obviously work on diversifying its economy and abandoning the irrational exploitation of natural resources such as gas and minerals, which will sooner or later be depleted. Instead, the priority is to promote the development of sectors such as agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.

Finally, there is sustainable development and within that framework the promotion of renewable energy and sustainable agricultural practices.

The bicentennial is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the development and well-being of all Bolivians. It is time for politicians to prove that they are true statesmen and for a new generation to take up this responsibility. The mistakes of the past must not be repeated. It is imperative to rekindle hope and look to the future with optimism.