In a powerful demonstration of private sector leadership, Bolivian companies are stepping up their efforts to advance gender equality through the WEPs. Over the course of several high-profile events in March 2025, a strong coalition of national and international stakeholders highlighted the role of the business community in driving meaningful and measurable progress toward women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace, and community.
At the heart of these efforts was the third edition of the "Actions for Equality" event, co-hosted by UN Women Bolivia, Iguales Fundación, the Global Compact Network Bolivia, and the Embassy of Sweden. Held on 12 March in La Paz with over 200 business leaders, the event honored companies whose male leaders have taken tangible steps to advance gender equality, particularly in male-dominated sectors, such as finance, pharmaceutical, and construction. Among those recognized were WEPs signatories Banco PYME Ecofuturo S.A. and Droguería INTI S.A.
Banco PYME Ecofuturo, a WEPs signatory since 2022, showcased its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through the “Crédito Eco Triunfadora” financial product, designed specifically to support women-led businesses. The bank has also conducted financial education workshops for women and created 14 lactation rooms at branch locations, along with offering preventive health services to staff. Droguería INTI S.A., a signatory since 2019, has prioritized gender balance and inclusivity, with 54 per cent of leadership positions held by women and the establishment of a childcare center at its production plant. Its progressive policies on flexible work and violence prevention set an important standard for gender-sensitive corporate culture.
In April, the Global Compact Network Bolivia hosted a working breakfast with the participation from UN Women Regional Director María-Noel Vaeza and Bolivia Representative Nidya Pesántez. The meeting brought together WEPs signatories and organizations, such as BancoFie, Yanbal, Fundación Coca-Cola, and others to share best practices, challenges, and plans to deepen their commitments to gender equality. BancoFie presented its roadmap to build a stronger WEPs community in Bolivia, including dialogue sessions co-convened with UN Women and the Global Compact.
Maria-Noel Vaeza emphasized that gender equality is not just a moral imperative but a smart business strategy that enhances resilience and sustainability. Lucia Sossa, Executive Director of the Global Compact Network Bolivia, echoed this sentiment and reaffirmed the network's dedication to advancing inclusive business models aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Further reinforcing these commitments, UN Women deepened its collaboration with BancoSol, a WEPs signatory and key ally in the financial sector. During her visit, Maria-Noel Vaeza met with BancoSol CEO Verónica Gavilanes to discuss a new round of joint actions to advance women’s economic empowerment and reduce gender gaps in the financial system. Since engaging in the WEPs 2.0 Business Accelerator in 2022, BancoSol has significantly enhanced its diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy. The bank advanced from an "Improver" in 2022 to a "Leader" in 2024—a remarkable progression that reflects its sustained investment in inclusive finance.
Together, these stories illustrate how Bolivian companies are not only aligning with global standards for gender equality but are also becoming trailblazers in their country and region. By engaging male-dominated sectors, leveraging strategic partnerships, and implementing concrete measures, these businesses are contributing to a more inclusive and resilient economy. UN Women recognizes their leadership and remains committed to working hand-in-hand with the private sector to drive lasting change in Bolivia and beyond.
