Each month, we share the stories of World BEYOND War volunteers around the world. Want to volunteer with World BEYOND War? Email greta@worldbeyondwar.org.
Location:
La Paz, Bolivia
How did you get involved with anti-war activism and World BEYOND War (WBW)?
For more than twenty years I have been dedicated to academic research on issues related to the armed forces, security and defense, all of them directly related to the search for peace and democracy. Thanks to this, in 2014 I obtained the recognition of the UNRILEC called “Forces of Change II. To the contribution of women in Latin America and the Caribbean to Disarmament,” on behalf of Bolivia.
In 2023, I became aware of the existence of WBW, through a data search that I conducted to write a book on the 200 years of the Monroe Doctrine and its application in Latin America and the Caribbean. I discovered the enormous amount of information on militarism that this organization offered, not only to researchers, but also to activists and the general population. Coincidentally, months later, I attended the opening of the Bolivian chapter of WBW held in La Paz, where I was able to learn more about their work and from there, I stayed connected with the organization.
What kinds of WBW activities do you work on?
At the end of 2024, I was invited to be part of the WBW Board and I have been participating in its meetings. Additionally, I collaborate in activities to disseminate information on peace, neutrality and militarization issues in national and international events. Likewise, as part of the Bolivian chapter of WBW, we continually seek to convene new members and work in outreach, activism and commitment to peace.
What’s your top recommendation for someone who wants to get involved with anti-war activism and WBW?
Let them be encouraged. No matter what activities you do, you can always collaborate. The mere fact of becoming aware of what war is doing to the world we live in is a great step forward. Supporting the search for peace is not something far from any reality, and it affects us in our daily lives. The important thing is to know that we can support in different ways: by informing ourselves, raising awareness, participating in activist events, attending activities, etc.
What keeps you inspired to advocate for change?
The certainty that a better world is possible and the possibility of making great transformations from small changes in our way of thinking, doing and dreaming.
Posted March 5, 2025.
