ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Water privatization in Bolivia

Okay, kiddo, let me tell you a story about water in Bolivia. Long ago, people in Bolivia used to get their water from springs, wells and rivers that were free to use. But one day, some people who wanted to make money thought they could make money by owning the water and charging people to use it.

So, they convinced the government to let them takeover the water sources and sell water to people. This is what we call water privatization, which means that private companies, not the government, own and control water access.

People in Bolivia, especially those who were poor, didn't like this idea because they couldn't afford to pay for something that was previously free. They protested and demanded that their government cancel the water privatization plans. But the government did not listen, and the private companies started charging people high rates for water.

People in Bolivia were unhappy and angry. They began protesting and it turned into a huge conflict between the government and the people. The protests became violent, and many people were hurt and arrested. This event is known as the Cochabamba water revolt.

Eventually, after months of unrest, the government canceled the water privatization plans, and the private companies left Bolivia. Now the government is responsible for managing and providing water to the people.

In conclusion, water privatization in Bolivia was a controversial decision that caused a lot of problems and conflicts between the government, private corporations, and the people. It showed that the water, which is essential to life, should be a basic human right and accessible to everyone regardless of their financial situation.