Enjoying Bolivia 155like James Petras, in Imperialism and NGOs in Latin America,
argue that NGOs were supported by neoliberal privatisers
as part of the trend to disenfranchise the state and, at the
same time, depoliticise or co-opt potential leaders of grass
roots movements.
In theory, Petras may be right, and certainly many NGOs
have been opportunistic and have pushed more paper than
progress. On the other hand, the people served by some
of these organisations could not have waited around for a
distant utopia, and I have witnessed more than a few NGO
participants who were also involved in social movements.
Foreigners in particular may not fi t in the front lines of
union or peasant marches but can fulfi ll a role in creating
opportunity or resolving problems.
The existence of NGOs offers a rare opportunity for visitors
to participate in the daily struggle of the country and not
just admire its marvels. NGOs are not the only vehicle for a
participatory stay in Bolivia, but they improve one’s odds for
fi nding purposeful activities.