description: Bolivian President Evo Morales has allied himself with Venezuela's Hugo Chávez and Cuba's Fidel Castro, taken steps to nationalize Bolivia's gas industry, and announced an overhaul of coca policy. This report outlines U.S. policy options for dealing with Morales and this volatile but important region. Eduardo A. Gamarra's analysis takes into account the evolution of the Morales administration, potential for violent conflict in Bolivia, and core problems that fuel anti-American sentiment. He argues that U.S. policy toward Bolivia must move away from a cold war approach and deemphasize the war on drugs. Regardless of its international alignments, Washington must construct working relations and strong lines of communication with the Bolivian government to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings. In addition, the United States should deepen democracy initiatives, better publicize its social programming, promote trade, and restart bilateral military assistance. It should also provide Bolivia with the opportunity to accede to the Millennium Challenge Account. And, if social unrest erupts in Bolivia, the United States should be better prepared to work with the country's neighbors.
language: English
title: Working With Evo Morales: Building Constructive U.s.-bolivia Relations
titlecomplete: Working With Evo Morales: Building Constructive U.s.-bolivia Relations
publisher: Council on Foreign Relations