(February 2, 2025)

Bolivia's protected areas face increasing threats from illegal activities that jeopardize their integrity and the conservation values for which they were created. Experts like Rodrigo Herrera point out that, although the country has over 30 years of experience in environmental management through the National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) and the National Service of Protected Areas (SERNAP), the lack of reforms and effective oversight has weakened the protection of these territories, leaving gaps in supervision and enforcement. Organizations such as the Commission for the Defense of Protected Areas of Bolivia (COPDEAPBO) insist on revitalizing and properly implementing the legal framework established since the 1990s. COPDEAPBO denounced the dismissal of park rangers, arguing that it failed to consider their critical role as the first line of defense against illegal activities. The international community has also called for their reinstatement, emphasizing the need to recognize their sacrifice and effort in preserving Bolivia's protected areas.