Bolivian legislative proposal on sterilization

Bolivian deputy Néstor Rodríguez of the Alianza Unidad party introduced a legislative proposal targeting individuals in street situations, particularly those struggling with drug addiction. The draft law seeks to establish a National Integrated Social Reintegration Program offering medical care, addiction treatment, and job training.

Central to the controversy is a provision regarding reproductive rights. While the bill initially mentions free, prior, and informed consent for permanent contraceptives, it includes mechanisms where sterilization could become mandatory for vulnerable women once specific legal stages are exhausted. Rodríguez has argued the measure is intended to address the precarious conditions of women and children exposed to substance abuse.

The proposal has drawn sharp condemnation from human rights organizations and the Defensoría del Pueblo (Ombudsman's Office). Critics argue the measure constitutes forced sterilization and violates fundamental rights to dignity, personal integrity, and reproductive freedom. Following initial backlash, Rodríguez suggested the wording might be adjusted to focus on permanent contraceptives rather than sterilization, though the bill remains a subject of intense opposition.