Public Policy Advocacy
Turning Evidence into Law
We work to create a legal framework that protects patients, guides professionals, and formally recognizes the therapeutic potential of these practices.
The goal
To promote favorable changes in Bolivia’s regulatory framework for assisted psychotherapies.
Even the greatest therapeutic potential is meaningless if the surrounding environment is hostile or uncertain. A clear legal framework is the backbone that makes all our work sustainable, safe, and scalable. It transforms an isolated practice into a recognized public-health solution, protects patients from harmful practices, and gives professionals the confidence to research and work openly. Without adequate public policy, every advance is fragile; with it, we build a lasting future.
Our plan
The map we visualize
Phase 1: Diagnosis and Design
At this initial stage, we focus on understanding the landscape and building solid foundations. We design drug-policy proposals from a mental-health perspective and create spaces for dialogue with national and international experts. This ensures that our work is collaborative and well-grounded from the outset.
Phase 2: Development
With a clear diagnosis, we move into action. We manage the implementation of innovative policy proposals with public and private institutions, and we facilitate dialogue among all stakeholders to develop regulatory models that are effective, realistic, and inclusive.
Phase 3: Implementation and Evaluation
Once policies are approved, our work does not end. We support and monitor their implementation to ensure they function in practice and make adjustments as needed. The ultimate goal is to guarantee the long-term sustainability of this new ecosystem.
Facing the obstacles
The challenges
Here we outline the challenges we face and how we are overcoming them step by step.
KEY CHALLENGE
Lack of a formal regulatory proposal
The context
Currently, there is no official document that the Ministry of Health can use as a model to regulate psychotherapeutic services involving entheogens, resulting in stagnation.
Our progress
We successfully conducted the workshop “Critical Path for Regulation” together with the Vice Ministry of Health. We have also actively participated in working groups focused on recognizing sacred plants as part of Bolivia’s cultural heritage.
Our next step
To develop and submit a comprehensive, detailed regulatory proposal. This document will serve as a technical and legal guide for the promotion and oversight of psychotherapeutic services nationwide.
KEY CHALLENGE
Need for socialization and consensus
The context
Legal change cannot be imposed; it must be understood and supported by civil society, health professionals, and state institutions to succeed.
Our progress
We already have initial policy proposals at the subnational level. These documents provide a foundation for initiating meaningful conversations from a health-and-development perspective.
Our next step
To organize meetings and working groups with a diverse range of social actors. The goal is to socialize, debate, and strengthen regulatory proposals so they gain broad support and legitimacy.
Frequently asked questions
Here we answer some of the most common questions about this area of our work.
I have a questionIs the therapeutic use of entheogens legal in Bolivia today?
At present, this issue exists in a gray area. The law allows the Ministry of Health to authorize scientific and health-related uses, but there are no specific regulations governing them, which creates uncertainty. Our mission is precisely to help create that regulation in order to provide legal certainty for all parties.
Why focus so strongly on policy and not only on therapy?
Because without a secure legal framework, any therapeutic advance is vulnerable and cannot scale. Policy advocacy is not a detour—it is the foundation that will allow thousands of people to access these processes safely and professionally in the future.
What is Ser Ajayu’s relationship with government institutions?
Our approach is proactive and collaborative. Rather than waiting, we engage with well-supported proposals, data, and a willingness to work together. We believe the most effective way to generate change is to be an informed and constructive ally.
How long do you think it will take to achieve this regulation?
Public-policy change is a complex process with no guaranteed timelines. However, our work in research, dialogue, and proposal drafting is designed to significantly accelerate the process by presenting viable solutions rather than merely pointing out problems.
