Aug. 12, 2008 - Bolivia's celebration of their Independence Day on Aug. 6, 2008, was disrupted by numerous social and political conflicts throughout the country.

The conflicts were concentrated in five cities:

• Sucre
• Santa Cruz
• Cochabamba
• Tarija
• Oruro

The causes of the conflicts were widespread. Many of the citizens protested with various demands they asked the government to solve.

This dispute led to a vote in a recall referendum which occurred on Aug. 10. Citizens of Bolivia voted to ratify several leaders in the government.

The vote was peaceful and there were no confrontations or violence as feared.

No Compassion-assisted child development centers or children were affected.

Please join us in thanking God for His protection of our children and their families.

Pray for peace in Bolivia and for wisdom for the leaders and the government.

Compassion Bolivia will provide updates as information becomes available.

Compassion International will contact you if your sponsored child has been affected.