Is Bolivia Safe?
The simple answer is yes…today.
The question of safety must address three specific concerns:
1) general safety from crime,
2) civilian conflicts such as political riots and
3) civil war.
Crime exists in Cocahbamba. There is one area in town where even the US Embassy and the city government warn folks not to go at night. So we don’t go there! There are warnings against females being out and about alone, so we don’t do that either. Certain types of public transit are the most common settings for robberies, so we don’t use them. Most crime is non-confrontational, such as burglaries. We keep our house well lit and have a very impressive guard dog. To be frank, I feel safer walking in Cochabamba at night than in most metropolitan areas of the States. Crime is real, but less dangerous than what you experience Stateside. Basic precautions are adequate.
Riots and political protests are usually planned well in advance. The primary danger in these situations is being caught out and about near the “action”. We stay home on those days, and listen to the news and our Bolivian friends so we are generally forewarned of any trouble. We were caught in the riot last year because we were in the wrong place at the wrong time, and hadn’t understood the warnings. Lesson learned! Blockades are a danger because if extended, the city runs out of staples like meat, milk and bread. Last year we had begun rationing our supplies before the blockade was lifted. We now have a freezer and keep a week’s supply of food on hand. Theoretically, civil unrest could become so bad that we would have to leave the area for a short period, but it is more likely that we can simply sit out these disturbances. It is part of the way of life here.
Civil war is a real possibility. We have come closer in the last few months to armed military conflict than any time in the previous twenty years. Both sides are preparing for war, training and gathering weapons. Leaders are fearful, because no one knows how it would turn out. The predictions are that if indeed war comes, it will be long, protracted and bloody.
War is not a certainty, however. Predicting Bolivian politics is an exercise in futility. Will the two sides back down? Will they find an acceptable compromise? Will the shooting start? No analyst worth his salt will offer a prediction. Even if civil war does break out, that does not mean that Cochabamba would be involved! In the last shooting war, Cochabamba was untouched. Obviously travel and ministry activities would be more limited, and evacuation might eventually be required, but there is no indication to justify leaving at this time.
There are indeed storm clouds over Bolivia. Whether the storm will strike or blow over is in the hands of God. For now, we walk freely in the city, eat at street side cafes and pursue our purpose here. We were led by God to this city. After living here and becoming part of the community, we are more convinced than ever that our ministry is needed here. This is a beautiful city, filled with wonderful, friendly people who need to hear the Gospel! While we will not take foolish chances, we will not leave unless absolutely necessary.
So is Bolivia safe? Yes, for now, and as long as God wants us to be here!