La Paz, Bolivia (HRNW): Human Rights Watch has warned that two decrees issued by Bolivia’s government in early August could seriously restrict freedom of association and the work of human rights organizations and defenders. The organization published its latest warning on 26 August 2026, making the issue one of the newest civil-society developments in the region.
According to Human Rights Watch, the new measures establish additional requirements affecting the registration and operation of nongovernmental organizations. The organization says the framework could give authorities excessive power over civil-society organizations and create uncertainty for groups working on human rights, environmental protection, social justice and community development.
Human Rights Watch has urged the Bolivian government to ensure that any NGO registration or oversight system complies with international standards protecting freedom of association, expression and peaceful civic participation.
The organization has emphasized that independent NGOs play an essential role in documenting abuses, supporting vulnerable communities, monitoring public institutions and defending people whose rights may otherwise receive little attention.
The development is particularly significant for human rights defenders and grassroots organizations, which can depend on independent registration and access to funding to carry out legal assistance, advocacy, research and community programmes.
Human Rights Watch’s intervention forms part of its broader global work investigating abuses, publishing findings and pressing governments to strengthen rights protections. The organization says it works in more than 100 countries and maintains independence from government funding.
The Bolivia case highlights a growing international debate over how governments regulate NGOs while still respecting the fundamental right of civil society to operate independently.
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Disclaimer
This HRNW report summarizes concerns and recommendations publicly expressed by Human Rights Watch. References to potential restrictions or threats to civil society reflect the assessment of the cited organization and are not presented as final judicial findings by HRNW. HRNW maintains complete editorial independence.
