A tense climate has developed in Bolivia over the past three weeks as large demonstrations and roadblocks have paralyzed the capital, La Paz.

An ICRC-run seminar and workshop on journalism, armed conflict and internal disturbance brought 18 journalists from various parts of Bolivia to Corioco (La Paz) on 25 and 26 September.

On 18 October the unrest in Bolivia subsided, leaving more than 70 people dead and around 500 wounded. El Alto, a city outside La Paz where the fighting had claimed many victims, was also calm. At the end of the weekend some 150 people were still being treated in hospitals, the others having been sent home after receiving first aid.

Geneva (ICRC) – An ICRC-rented aircraft landed today at La Paz's international airport of El Alto. On board was a first consignment of medical and relief items for people suffering the effects of prolonged internal strife in Bolivia.

The ICRC regional delegation in Buenos Aires launched a training programme for the national police with an introductory seminar in La Paz.