Bolivia: The Construction of an Alternative Science and Technology Policy

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze recent changes in Bolivia's science and technology policy and contextualize them in the surrounding region. It is recognized that since the 1980s, Latin America initiated a series of changes in its science and technology policies driven by the needs of the economic accumulation regime prevalent and based on new theories of innovation. Policies placed their emphasis on the application of scientifijic technology in order to boost national competitiveness. During the 1990s, a closer link was established between the neoliberal regime of accumulation, science and technology policies, and the concept of innovation. The outcry from various social movements subsequently demanded a refocus of these policies towards a more regional and social orientation. The emergence of governments more critical of neoliberalism resulted in the need to rethink science and technology policies as shown by the experience of Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Bolivia and Ecuador. The transitional case of Bolivia is examined here so as to contribute to the larger discussion concerning Latin America's science and technology policies.