OneWorld.net (U.S.)

Nominated by: Charrua, SARDOGZ, and one anonymous OneWorlder (on the OneWorld blog)

© Gonzalo Jallasi / www.abi.boThe world's indigenous peoples have been struggling for millennia to maintain their independence, cultures, and rights, while anti-poverty advocates have been working for decades to revamp the global political and economic structures that are widely believed to increase inequality and limit opportunities for billions. Many are pointing to the January 2006 inauguration of Bolivian president Evo Morales as a watershed moment for both these camps.

Morales, himself a member of Bolivia’s Aymara community, is Latin America's first indigenous president, and supporters say that his presidential record affirms his commitment to indigenous people's rights. Through the first six months of his presidency Morales held approval ratings of 70 to 80 percent as he instituted significant pro-poor economic changes.

In May, he issued a decree forcing all foreign oil companies to renegotiate their governmental contracts in an effort to keep more of the country's energy revenues at home. “An historic day has arrived. Now the gas and oil that flows from our land will no longer belong to foreigners,” said Morales, whose decision drew some criticism alongside much applause.

Another major change came with the passage of land reform in November, which will allow the Bolivian government to transfer control of certain lands to indigenous and farming communities who lack sufficient areas on which to live and prosper economically.

Outside of the policy realm, fans of the dynamic Morales have been taken by his sincerity. “I have been impressed by the way he treats presidents and dignitaries with the same human warmth and sympathy that he shows for the humblest person he extends a hand to,” wrote one OneWorld reader, noting Morales’ “firm vocation for peace and solidarity.”

Many international political experts have noted a Latin American tide of sentiment opposing the traditional corporate-driven globalization, and some believe that tide may spread to other parts of the world in the coming years. An indigenous president and popular economic reformer, Evo Morales may personify that tide more than anybody else alive today.

More on indigenous rights advocacy: Efforts on behalf of indigenous people are also happening at the grassroots level, says a OneWorlder nominating Monica Alemán Cunningham, a program director at the international human rights group MADRE and coordinator of the International Indigenous Women’s Forum. Read Cunningham’s inspiring story, in her own words, here.

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