Protection and prospects for children and young people

finished

According to the World Bank, in 2021 almost 40% of the Bolivian population live below the poverty line; almost 10% in extreme poverty. The negative effects of the Covid pandemic on the economic situation are still making an impact, which has thrown many countries in the Region, including Bolivia, back into poverty.  Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in Latin America. The vast majority of the Bolivian population is informally employed and a large proportion of them are women. Youth unemployment stands at 10%.

Bolivia also has one of the highest femicide rates in Latin America. The last government survey in 2016 showed that 70% of women in Bolivia experience violence in their lifetime and in 2022, reports of violence against children, young people and women increased by 10%. A large number of unreported cases can also be assumed. At the same time, state institutions and the police are often overwhelmed by this problem. The project region includes La Paz, El Alto and Cochabamba, three of the largest cities in Bolivia, which are also characterised by the immigration of the rural population. The third region, Rurrenabaque, is a small tourist town where there is a great need to prevent sex tourism. In order to break the vicious circle of violence and exploitation, those affected need not only protection and care. For a prospect of an independent, dignified life, access to education, vocational training and, in particular, income is essential.

The project is part of Caritas Switzerland's focus on income. It promotes access to education and income for children and young people from precarious living conditions. Re-integration into the education system and vocational skills require accompanying psycho-social support and protection, especially for victims of violence. In close cooperation with state-accredited vocational training institutions, schools, private companies, employment agencies and with a support package for small business start-ups, the children, young people and young women are given new prospects in life and the opportunity to generate a source of income.

A total of 1'390 children, adolescents and young adults have access to integral care in shelters, where they stay for between three months and several years. The three partner organizations also run day facilities as contact points for girls and boys who spend a large part of their time on the streets and are therefore at high risk of becoming victims of violence and exploitation. Those involved in the project receive healthcare, psychological and legal support. In addition, vocational training courses and preparatory courses for the labour market, such as support in conducting job interviews and training in communication and social skills, are intended to improve their entry into the labour market. The project participants are also supported in their entrepreneurial initiatives. Finally, by establishing a network with various institutions, a job exchange is to be set up and internships offered for the young people.

Building a new perspective on life is essential for breaking the vicious circle of violence and addiction. Protection and reporting mechanisms are also being strengthened to prevent violence, in cooperation with school institutions and local communities, as well as parents and teachers (450 people). Around 500 employees from youth welfare offices, state and non-profit organizations and the police are being trained in child protection and violence prevention.