Bolivia

The Andes Mountains dominate the landscape and lives of people in Bolivia. Three-quarters of the population lives in the central mountain plateau at an altitude of more than 12,000 feet. Native Aymara and Quechua people make up more than half the population. Spanish (spoken by about 40 percent of the population), Aymara and Quechua are all "official" languages in Bolivia.

The poorest country in South America, Bolivia has regained some stability after the economic crisis of the 1980s (characterized by hyperinflation and high unemployment). However, serious problems remain. Most social services, such as health care and education, have been cut to pay interest on Bolivia's international debt. Craft production provides an important source of income to some Bolivian people. One handicraft group, the Qantati Association of Artisans, is organized into rural and urban groups and provides worker benefits to its members. The artisans, who participate in decision-making at all levels, produce musical instruments and ceramic items that are purchased by Ten Thousand Villages. The group is also developing local markets for its wares, accounting for at least 20 percent of its sales.

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