Blackwell Reference Online

Extract

The evolution of the media system in Bolivia has been shaped by the nation's particular geography, demography, culture, politics, and economy to produce a contradictory blend of innovation, richness, stagnation, and poverty. Land-locked in South America, Bolivia is perennially one of the most impoverished and politically unstable nations in Latin America, a legacy that has negatively impacted the development of the media system. Despite this legacy and general tendency, Bolivia is also home to some of the most innovative media practices in the world, especially in the area of community radio. Bordered by Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru, Bolivia has just over 10 million inhabitants occupying a space of 1.1 million square kilometers, making it about the size of France and Spain combined. The nation gained independence from Spain in 1825 and experienced an armed revolution in 1952. The revolution ushered in major reforms such as the nationalization of the mining industry and the redistribution of lands to peasants, which precipitated class conflicts, political unrest, and a series of military coups. The nation has experienced more than 200 different governments since independence and suffered periods of hyperinflation in the mid-1980s which hit 12,000 percent in 1985 alone. Civilian rule returned in 1982, since which democratic elections have been held for its president ... log in or subscribe to read full text