Patterns of protest

Politics and social movements in Bolivia

John Crabtree, Latin America Bureau, 118 pages, paperback, £8.99

This summer Bolivia was rocked by strikes, blockades and street demonstrations involving hundreds of thousands of workers. The result was the resignation of the president.

This book provides valuable background information on the key actors and issues. It explains why workers are angry about water privatisation and the control of huge natural gas reserves. Some 60% of Bolivians live on less than $1 (50p) a day, and only 16% have enough to meet their basic needs.

It also explains how organisations such as the Regional Labour Confederation (COR), the Gas Coalition, the COB trade union federation, peasant organisations, students, miners and teachers have fought back.

What is clear is that more workers' struggles are on the horizon. This book is a good place to find out why.