Question

How are popular struggles integral to the working democracy? Explain with an example of Bolivia's struggle against privatisation of water.

Answer 1

The importance of popular struggle in a democracy can be understood from the example of Bolivia's water war. People were dissatisfied with the decision of the government of giving up its control over municipal water supply and the subsequent hike in water tax imposed by the multinational corporation. This led to spontaneous popular protests as the water cost began to make a dent in the household budget of the people. An alliance of labour, human rights and community leaders organised a four day strike which was called off after the government agreed to negotiate. It was due to such protests by the people that the MNC contract was cancelled and the municipal water supply was restored to old rates.