Bolivia bill proposes mandatory sterilization for homeless women

A controversial bill proposed in Bolivia suggests the possibility of mandatory sterilization for women living on the streets under judicial control. The initiative was introduced by substitute deputy Néstor Rodríguez of the opposition alliance Unidad.

Rodríguez argues the measure aims to promote social reintegration and address the precarious conditions of women and children exposed to drug use, specifically mentioning the inhalation of substances like 'clefa' (glue). While the bill initially requires free, prior, and informed consent for permanent contraception, it includes a provision where sterilization could become mandatory once certain legal stages are exhausted.

The proposal has faced strong opposition from the Ombudsman's Office (Defensoría del Pueblo) and various human rights organizations, which warn that the measure would violate fundamental rights.