Bolivia's Economic Crisis: The Rise of Informal Street Vending in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Bolivia: Economic Crisis Drives Rise in Informal Street Vending Amidst a deepening economic crisis in Bolivia, the streets and markets of Santa Cruz are seeing a surge in informal vendors, many of them young people and elderly citizens. A recent video report by Red Uno captures the daily struggles of these individuals, offering a poignant look into their lives. "The effort is doubled to earn 30 or 40 Bolivianos a day," says one young vendor interviewed in the video, highlighting the meager income they generate. The report shows vendors selling refreshments and gelatin, often working long hours under challenging conditions. Doña Magdalena, 66, is shown working 10-12 hours a day to sell her drinks. "It's getting harder and harder, I don't know where we're going to end up," she shares, expressing the growing difficulty of making a living. The video underscores the economic pressures facing many Bolivians and the resilience of those who are forced to find alternative ways to survive. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of economic instability and the need for support for vulnerable communities.