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Bolivian Government's Response to Protests Raises Human Rights Concerns

Michael Rummel

   Protests continue in Bolivia as human rights organizations raise
   concerns over reports of the use excessive force by security forces.

   The popular upheaval began following the disputed election of Oct. 20
   which, according to official results, long-time President Evo Morales
   won with a margin large enough to avoid a run-off. The Organization of
   American States (OAS) cited a pause in returns as suspicious, and
   claimed the results as fraudulent.

   Soon after, protesters took to the streets calling for new elections.
   Morales, initially defiant, resigned under pressure from the military
   after agreeing to hold new elections.

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